SWATI KULKARNI, MD

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This study focuses on improving how eye-tracking data is organized and shared in neuroimaging research by extending a system called BIDS (Brain Imaging Data Structure). The new guidelines will make it easier to handle eye-tracking recordings, including where a person is looking and their pupil size, providing better clarity and reliability for researchers. It improves the overall data management in the field, making studies more transparent and trustworthy. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists working with neuroimaging and eye-tracking data.

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This study looked at a type of brain lesions known as non-enhancing FLAIR abnormalities (NEFA) in patients with primary CNS lymphoma, analyzing data from 112 patients over several years. The findings revealed that patients with NEFA had a much higher chance of disease progression (46.6% vs. 7.4%) and that increases in NEFA were linked to a significantly higher risk of death. Recognizing NEFA as a key indicator could help doctors identify patients at greater risk of treatment failure earlier, allowing for more timely interventions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with primary CNS lymphoma and their doctors.

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This study looked at a new surgical tool designed to help doctors correct the alignment of the knee in patients undergoing a specific type of knee surgery called medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). Researchers analyzed data from 68 patients and found that the tool successfully achieved the desired knee alignment in most cases—81% of patients were within 2 degrees of the target angle. However, while the system performed well overall, it struggled more with a specific adjustment aimed at reducing the slope of the shin bone. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing knee surgery, as well as their doctors.

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This study focused on how well different tools can detect low-frequency genetic variants, which are small changes in DNA that can be important for understanding issues like cancer and drug resistance. Researchers tested seven tools using data from 700 genetic samples and found that FreeBayes was the best tool, achieving an accuracy score of 0.86 in identifying variants related to drug resistance. The study also introduced a new method to reduce incorrect variant calls, successfully removing 49% of false positives while keeping almost all true positives intact, which is important for improving genetic analysis. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working with genetic data, especially in fields like cancer treatment and infectious disease.

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This study looked at what types of HIV medication people in New York City prefer—daily pills or long-acting injectables (LAI). Out of 200 participants, 57% preferred LAI, especially younger individuals and those identifying as Latino/a, but only 4% had actually tried this treatment before. Understanding these preferences is important for improving HIV care and ensuring that new treatment options are used effectively and fairly. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how inflammation affects the nervous system in the gut, which is important for digestion. Researchers found that during inflammation, certain immune cells invade the gut's nervous system and cause changes that lead to ongoing problems with movement in the intestines, even when inflammation has subsided. They identified that enhancing a specific stress response in gut nerves can help prevent these issues and keep the gut functioning properly. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by offering potential strategies for improving their digestive health.

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This study looked at measles complications in five children with weakened immune systems, finding that four of them developed serious brain infections, while one had severe pneumonia. The researchers identified two different strains of the measles virus: one type in four children and a related type in the fifth child. The findings highlight the need for high vaccination rates—over 95%—to prevent outbreaks that can severely affect these vulnerable kids. Who this helps: This helps immunocompromised children and their caregivers by emphasizing the importance of measles vaccination.

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This study looked at how children with autoimmune liver disease (AILD) experience their quality of life over time and what factors affect it. Out of 162 children, the researchers found that those with AILD reported significantly lower quality of life compared to healthy children, especially in areas like school and emotions. Fatigue and itching were linked to poorer quality of life, and the use of certain medications like prednisone helped improve emotional well-being. Who this helps: This research helps patients and their caregivers understand the challenges faced by children with AILD and the factors that affect their quality of life.

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This study looked at a protein called Def1 in yeast and how it influences the process of translating mRNA into proteins and the breakdown of mRNA. The researchers found that when Def1 was deleted, it caused changes in how mRNA is processed, specifically increasing the time that ribosomes spend at less-efficient parts of the mRNA. This is important because it helps explain how cells manage the stability and efficiency of their genetic instructions under stress. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying gene expression and could lead to better understanding of genetic disorders.

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This study examined how different types of oil affect the oxygen levels in the liquid used to grow embryos in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The researchers found that using light oil allowed oxygen levels to stabilize more quickly than heavy oil, with light oil taking about 71 minutes and heavy oil taking around 116 minutes to reach a stable low oxygen level. These results are important because they highlight the need to limit embryos' exposure to higher oxygen levels during handling, which can help improve their development. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing ART treatments, as it may lead to better embryo growth and higher success rates.

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This study looked at how breast core needle biopsies (CNBs) are categorized to improve the accuracy of diagnosing breast cancer. Out of 66 biopsies, 65% were found to be invasive cancer, and the diagnostic accuracy for the higher-risk categories (B4 and B5) was about 90%. These findings show that using a standardized B category system helps doctors better communicate and manage patient care, potentially leading to quicker and more effective treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients and their doctors by improving diagnosis and treatment decisions.

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This study explored a new way to identify different types of sickle cell disorders using a technology called mass spectrometry. Researchers found that measuring specific ratios of hemoglobin, such as the beta/beta ratio, accurately distinguished sickle cell trait from sickle cell disease with a high sensitivity of 90.3% and specificity of 98.4%. This new method could help simplify diagnosis, especially in complicated cases, and lessen the reliance on molecular testing, making it quicker and cheaper to identify sickle cell conditions. Who this helps: Patients with sickle cell disorders and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at age-related hearing loss in rhesus macaques to understand how it affects both hearing and thinking as they get older. The researchers found that older macaques had significant hearing loss, marked by a loss of important hair cells in the ear, and this was associated with some decline in their visual memory abilities. This research is important because it helps explain how hearing loss may be connected to cognitive decline in older adults, paving the way for future treatments that address both issues together. Who this helps: This helps older adults experiencing hearing loss and cognitive decline, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at tobacco sales and advertising around schools in different areas of Vientiane, the capital of Laos, to understand how these factors might affect young people's smoking habits. Researchers found 233 tobacco retail outlets, with more outdoor ads and less age-verification in rural areas like Naxaithong, where 90% of shops displayed ads, compared to urban districts where the rate was about 55%. These findings highlight disparities in tobacco marketing and regulation, suggesting that better monitoring of tobacco sales is needed to protect youth, especially in rural areas. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially young people at risk of starting to smoke.

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This study examined a specific receptor, ADGRA1, in the brain's hippocampus, which plays a key role in how certain inhibitory nerve cells (called PV interneurons) function. The researchers found that removing ADGRA1 from these cells weakened their ability to inhibit other neurons and disrupted their overall activity, impacting how the brain processes information. Understanding ADGRA1's role is important because it helps clarify how brain circuits work, which could lead to better treatments for conditions related to brain function. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with neurological disorders that affect brain circuits, such as epilepsy or anxiety.

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This study looked at how to identify non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who might benefit from adding chemotherapy to their treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Researchers developed an algorithm called the Therapy Response Index (TRI) using data from 1,263 patients. They found that patients with a low TRI score had a median overall survival improvement of about 3 months when chemotherapy was added, whereas patients with a high TRI score did not see any benefit. Who this helps: This helps doctors determine the best treatment options for NSCLC patients, ensuring that those who will benefit from chemotherapy can receive it while avoiding unnecessary treatments for others.

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This research focused on how scleroderma, a condition that causes hardening of the skin, affects the digestive system. It found that around 90% of people with the systemic form of scleroderma experience gastrointestinal problems, such as difficulty swallowing and stomach issues, which arise from changes in the muscles and tissues of the GI tract. Understanding these specific digestive challenges is crucial for doctors as it helps them provide better care tailored to the unique needs of scleroderma patients. Who this helps: Patients with scleroderma and the doctors treating them.

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This study examined how to effectively set up a breast cancer screening program in Canada that targets individuals based on their risk levels. A workshop with 34 experts resulted in a detailed plan for this program, which includes various ways to assess risk, use technology, and train healthcare workers. This is important because it helps ensure that women receive the most appropriate screenings based on their individual risk, potentially improving early detection and outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of breast cancer.

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This study looked at a treatment called splenic artery embolization for patients experiencing severe fluid buildup (ascites) after liver surgery for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). It was found that a 72-year-old man who underwent this procedure experienced a significant decrease in fluid buildup and was discharged from the hospital in stable condition five days later. This matters because it offers a new, less invasive option for effectively managing fluid issues in patients recovering from liver surgery. Who this helps: Patients recovering from liver surgery for liver cancer.

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In a study on a mouse model of Rett syndrome, researchers explored why these mice experience problems with their intestinal movements, which is a common issue in people with the condition. They found that the signaling pathway involving a protein called BDNF and its receptor, TrkB, was reduced, while other signaling pathways were disrupted, indicating that changes in specific types of nerve cells in the gut contribute to these digestive problems. This matters because it helps to uncover the biological reasons behind gastrointestinal issues in Rett syndrome, which could lead to better treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with Rett syndrome and their families.

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This study looked at how a specific receptor (FcRn) affects the way monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are distributed in the eye after they are injected into the bloodstream. Researchers found that a standard antibody (trastuzumab) stayed longer in the body and spread more effectively to ocular tissues than a non-binding version, especially in the iris-ciliary body and tears, with the standard version showing more than double the amount in these areas (14.95% compared to 8.89%). Understanding these differences is important for improving treatments for eye diseases and managing potential side effects of these therapies. Who this helps: Patients with eye diseases that may benefit from monoclonal antibody treatments.

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This study examined a new light beam technology that can be used in advanced imaging techniques, particularly in biological research. The researchers found that their new "pencil beam" improved imaging of mouse intestines and human brain cells by providing clearer images compared to older methods, specifically reducing unwanted background noise by improving the clarity in different cell types. This is important because better imaging tools can help scientists understand how substances move through biological systems, which can aid in medical research and treatment development. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists studying complex cellular processes in health and disease.

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This study looked at how stress affects the functioning of the nervous system that controls gut movement in mice. Researchers found that over 85% of certain signals (called BDNF) in the gut's nervous system are sensitive to stress hormones, and that stress led to poorer gut movement, especially in male mice. Importantly, using a specific treatment that boosts the signaling of BDNF helped improve gut function in stressed animals. Who this helps: Patients with gastrointestinal disorders related to stress.

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This study looked at what healthcare providers prefer when designing HIV treatment programs that include long-acting injectable medications. Researchers surveyed 177 providers in New York, discovering that most of them preferred bimonthly injections over monthly ones, and they valued patient convenience more than administrative ease. The study found that both groups of providers wanted to offer better support for patients, such as home injections and higher-value rewards for attending appointments. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV by improving their access to and adherence to treatment.

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This study looked at the weight histories of 79,271 cancer patients in England who started systemic treatment from 2013 to 2023. Researchers found that 26.4% of these patients were obese when they began treatment, while over half (53.5%) had been obese at some point in their lives. These findings are important because they highlight that using current weight alone to evaluate cancer risks may miss a significant number of patients with a history of obesity, influencing their treatment and outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors understand the full impact of obesity on cancer treatment and outcomes.

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This study focused on combining a special tool called a nanoindenter, which tests the strength of materials, with X-ray diffraction, which examines the structure of materials. The researchers successfully created a system that allows both tools to work together automatically, gathering valuable information about how materials behave when they are compressed. They tested this setup with titanium samples and found it could track changes in both strength and structure in real-time, demonstrating a powerful new way to study materials under stress. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers developing new materials for various applications.

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Researchers developed a training program called SPEARS to teach doctors in India how to use point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in anesthesia. They taught a group of 26 anesthesiologists and residents and found that their knowledge and skills improved significantly after the training, with satisfaction ratings averaging 4.4 out of 5. This is important because it shows that high-quality training can enhance medical care in places with limited resources, leading to more effective and timely patient diagnoses. Who this helps: This helps doctors and anesthesia providers in resource-limited settings.

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This research looked at a rare brain disease called lymphomatosis cerebri (LC), which can easily be confused with other conditions that cause similar symptoms, like multiple sclerosis. The study focused on a 31-year-old man who initially showed signs of a demyelinating disease but didn’t get better after treatment. After further testing, including a brain biopsy, doctors found that he had LC, emphasizing that recognizing certain patterns in brain scans is crucial for an accurate diagnosis. Who this helps: This helps doctors in diagnosing difficult cases and ultimately benefits patients with similar symptoms.

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This study looked at how new technologies are changing the way occlusal splints, used for treating jaw issues like bruxism (teeth grinding), are made and used. Researchers found that new biofeedback-enabled splints equipped with sensors can monitor muscle activity and provide immediate feedback to help patients manage their conditions better. These advancements make splints more effective by customizing them to individual needs and improving patient compliance with treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with temporomandibular disorders and bruxism.

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This study looked at why some children in Ghana aren’t getting their vaccinations, focusing on the roles of mothers and fathers in deciding about immunization. Researchers found that mothers often take the lead in vaccination decisions, but their ability to do so is limited by social norms and healthcare challenges like staff shortages and costs. By encouraging fathers to be more involved and improving communication with healthcare workers, the researchers believe more children can get vaccinated on time. Who this helps: This benefits families, healthcare workers, and ultimately, children's health in Ghana.

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This study looked at the role of microglia, which are brain cells involved in the immune response, in epilepsy and its associated seizures. Researchers found that using certain treatments to inhibit or modify these microglia can significantly reduce the number of repeated seizures after a severe initial seizure, showing a promising path forward for developing new treatments. Understanding how microglia contribute to brain health during epilepsy can lead to better strategies for preventing damage and improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with epilepsy.

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This study focuses on how pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a severe lung disorder, is managed in India. Researchers found that PAH is often diagnosed late and treated inconsistently due to limited resources, lack of local guidelines, and high treatment costs. They emphasize the need for tailored management strategies that fit the unique challenges of the Indian healthcare system, aiming to improve patient care and outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and healthcare providers in India.

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This study looked at a specific eye condition called peripapillary choroidal neovascular membrane (P-CNVM) that affects people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Researchers analyzed data from 7 women with IIH, finding that while vision slightly worsened in one eye, it improved in another after treatment with anti-VEGF injections and acetazolamide. This matters because it highlights the need for careful monitoring and effective treatment of a rare but serious complication of IIH that can impact vision. Who this helps: Patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and their eye care providers.

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This research studied the best rate of fluid removal (ultrafiltration) for critically ill patients with kidney problems undergoing a specific type of treatment. The findings revealed that a rate of 4 mL/kg/h led to fewer cases of low blood pressure (hypotension) and treatment interruptions compared to lower rates, potentially reducing the risk of complications and improving patient outcomes. This is important because lower blood pressure can increase the risk of death and extend hospital stays for these vulnerable patients. Who this helps: Patients in intensive care with acute kidney injury.

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This study looked at how certain nerve cells in the gut, known as enteric neurons, influence the growth of colorectal cancer cells. Researchers found that a specific protein called PCSK1 helps produce Methionine-enkephalin (M-ENK), which can slow down the growth of cancer cells. In experiments, they discovered that higher levels of M-ENK led to a significant reduction in cancer cell proliferation, suggesting that targeting this pathway could offer new treatment options for colorectal cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with colorectal cancer by opening up potential new treatments.

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This study examined how well the Ilizarov external fixator works for patients with open tibial fractures, which are fractures where the bone pierces the skin and often involve significant soft tissue damage. Out of 20 patients treated, 90% had good to excellent functional outcomes, and all patients were able to bear weight early on after the procedure. This is important because it shows that the Ilizarov fixator can help patients recover faster and regain mobility after serious bone injuries. Who this helps: This helps patients with open tibial fractures and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on helping people in Laos quit smoking using a mobile health app designed for personalized support. Researchers are testing this app against standard quit-smoking methods by enrolling 500 adult smokers from two hospitals; half will receive usual care while the other half will use the app. If successful, this program could greatly improve quitting rates and reduce smoking-related health issues in Laos, where smoking is common among men (51%) and much less so among women (7%). Who this helps: This benefits smokers in Laos looking to quit, health care providers, and public health officials.

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This study examined two treatment methods for patients with advanced gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) that were not responding to standard intravenous therapy. Researchers found that patients receiving a direct intra-arterial treatment had a significantly better response rate of 36.3% compared to 13.6% for those who continued with intravenous treatment. Additionally, the intra-arterial group experienced better quality of life and longer progression-free survival, with 90.8% achieving disease control compared to 77.2% in the other group, and they faced no major side effects. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced GEP-NETs who are not responding to initial treatments.

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This study looked at a rare blood type called Bombay phenotype and how a patient with this blood type was able to receive a common blood type (O-positive) transfusion without any immediate problems. The patient had severe anemia with a very low hemoglobin level of 4.8 g/dL, but despite being incompatible with the O-positive blood, he did not experience any transfusion reaction at first. The researchers found that this was due to a temporary weakening of his immune system caused by a condition he also had, which allowed him to tolerate the incompatible blood for a short time. This case shows the importance of accurately identifying rare blood types to prevent serious complications and to ensure patients receive the right blood for treatments like chemotherapy. Who this helps: This helps patients with rare blood types and their doctors by highlighting the need for careful blood type matching and access to rare blood donations.

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This study focused on identifying rare hemoglobin variants in patients with unusual hemoglobin profiles by combining several analytical techniques. Researchers found that by using capillary electrophoresis and liquid chromatography along with mass spectrometry, they could accurately identify specific variants, such as Hb D-Ouled Rabah and Hb O-Indonesia, in four patients. This approach is important because it improves the accuracy of diagnosing these variants, which can affect treatment and management of blood-related conditions. Who this helps: Patients with rare hemoglobin disorders benefit from more accurate diagnoses and better-targeted treatment options.

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This research examined how small, specially designed structures made from polymers can help improve chemotherapy for solid tumors like breast and pancreatic cancer. The study found that these nanostructured scaffolds can increase the concentration of drugs directly at the tumor site while reducing side effects, leading to better treatment results. For example, using these scaffolds has shown to enhance drug delivery and overall effectiveness in preclinical tests, which could mean more effective cancer treatments in the future. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients and doctors by providing more effective treatment options with fewer side effects.

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The study looked at how prepared college students in the southwestern U.S. are to respond to opioid overdoses. Researchers found that students had low knowledge of available campus resources and how to use naloxone (a medication that reverses overdoses), with just 25% reporting they felt comfortable spreading awareness about these resources. This is important because increasing students' readiness, willingness, and ability to respond can save lives during overdose emergencies. Who this helps: This helps college students by ensuring they have the knowledge and resources needed to effectively respond to opioid overdoses.

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This study looked at how to gather information about why caregivers in the Philippines may or may not vaccinate their young children. Researchers surveyed 3,752 caregivers using household, mobile, and online methods and found that between 85% and 91.8% of children received at least one dose of the DPT vaccine, while over 30% of mobile and online respondents struggled to pay for vaccination. Understanding these factors and the costs of different survey methods helps public health officials more effectively promote vaccination. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and healthcare providers in low- and middle-income countries.

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This study looked at a new method called comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic profiling (CGTP) in patients with advanced cancer who had not responded to conventional treatments based on their DNA information. The researchers found that CGTP identified useful genetic changes in about 70% of cases and relevant RNA expressions in all cases studied, leading to nearly 20% of patients receiving therapies that better matched their cancer's profile. This matters because it shows that CGTP can improve treatment options for patients who previously had none. Who this helps: Patients with advanced solid tumors.

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This study looked at specific genetic changes in a gene called DAW1 that are linked to a condition where organs are on the wrong side of the body (heterotaxy) and serious heart problems, without showing signs of another condition related to cilia (primary ciliary dyskinesia). Researchers found two important genetic variants: one fully disrupted certain functions, while the other affected specific processes but could still help with some functions. This research is important because it helps better understand these genetic variants and how they are related to specific health issues, which can improve diagnosis and treatment options. Who this helps: This helps patients with heterotaxy and congenital heart disease.

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Scientists analyzed the gravitational wave signal GW250114 — the strongest ever detected — to test whether the black hole produced by the merger behaves exactly as Einstein's general relativity predicts. The analysis confirmed at least two distinct oscillation modes in the signal and measured their frequencies to within a few percent of theoretical predictions, providing the most stringent single-event test of general relativity to date. These results validate both the theory and the Kerr description of black holes with unprecedented precision.