Author Interviews, Surgical Research / 20.12.2025

Constructing or renovating an operating room is one of the most intricate projects in healthcare design. Every detail, from air circulation to technology integration, plays a critical role in maintaining safety and functionality. Yet the process extends far beyond mechanical systems and sterile finishes. It is about creating an environment where technology, people, and process work together with seamless precision.   The earliest stages of an operating room build begin long before construction starts. Successful projects start with understanding how surgical teams move, communicate, and interact with equipment. Layouts must support clear sightlines, efficient circulation, and ergonomic access to tools and supplies. Architects, clinicians, and engineers often collaborate through detailed simulations to ensure every inch of the space serves a purpose. When this planning is thorough, the final build supports not only compliance but also the daily rhythm of surgical teams.
Author Interviews, Cognitive Issues, Karolinski Institute, Pediatrics / 18.12.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Samson Nivins PhD Postdoctoral Researcher, specializing in Perinatal and Pediatric NeurologySamson Nivins PhD Postdoctoral Researcher, specializing in Perinatal and Pediatric Neurology [caption id="attachment_71834" align="alignleft" width="92"]Torkel Klingberg, M.D., Ph.D.Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the Stockholm Brain Institute Dr. Klingberg[/caption] Torkel Klingberg, M.D., Ph.D. Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the Stockholm Brain Institute Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Sweden   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: In the modern era, children’s use of digital media such as watching videos, playing video games, and using social media has increased substantially, often coinciding with a decline in outdoor activities. As many school-aged children now own personal devices, particularly smartphones, it has become easier for them to spend more time on screens than intended. For example, a German survey cited in an EU briefing reported that in 2020, 27% of 8-9-year-olds and 54% of 10-11-year-olds owned a smartphone. In the U.S., ~30% of children own a smartphone by age eight, with many receiving their first device between ages 10 and 11. With growing concerns about screen time, numerous studies have examined its potential consequences and have reported associations between higher screen use and increased ADHD symptoms. However, most of this research has been cross-sectional and has tended to combine different types of digital media such as television, video games, and social media into a single composite measure. This approach may obscure important differences, as various forms of digital media may have distinct effects on ADHD symptoms. To date, relatively few studies have examined the impact of specific types of digital media use on ADHD in a longitudinal framework, and even fewer have accounted for the heritable nature of ADHD. To address these gaps, this U.S. longitudinal study followed children from ages 9-10 to 13-14 years. The study collected repeated measures of daily time spent on specific digital activities, including television and videos, video games, and social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. ADHD symptoms specifically inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity were assessed using parent reports, and analyses adjusted for genetic factors and socioeconomic status.
Author Interviews, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Kidney Disease / 18.12.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71837" align="alignleft" width="150"]dr_kramer_headshot Dr. Holly Kramer[/caption] Dr. Holly Kramer MD, MPH Professor of Public Health Sciences and Medicine Division of Nephrology and Hypertension Loyola University Chicago MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this survey? How is UACR measured? Would you explain the significance of albumin in the urine and what creatinine represents? Response: Approximately 36 million people live with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the U.S. today, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) being the number one cause of death for this patient population. About 1 in 3 adults with T2D has UACR >30 mg/g with prevalence approaching 40% in older patients. Compared to patients with T2D alone, those with elevated UACR face:
    • 5-times higher risk of hospitalization for heart failure
    • 4-times higher risk of CV mortality
    • 3-times higher risk of myocardial infarction
Interestingly, once thought of as a traditional renal biomarker, urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) >30 is also a critical biomarker and urgent signal of cardiovascular (CV) risk. When checking UACR, we look at two things: the amount of albumin leaking into the urine and the creatinine level. Albumin shouldn’t be getting through the kidneys’ filters at all, so when we see a UACR >30 mg/g, it’s a sign of systemic vascular endothelial dysfunction. So, if albumin is leaking through the blood vessels inside the kidneys, there’s also damage in the vessels across other organs, like the heart. UACR is such an important early indicator of CV risk in T2D because even small increases follow a clear ‘rule of three’s’. Healthy kidneys secrete 3 mg/g of albumin to creatinine per day, but when it rises to 30 mg/g, a tenfold increase that signals vascular dysfunction and increasing CV risk. At 300 mg/g, another tenfold increase, the damage is more advanced, and CV risk accelerates. Patients with eGFR >60 BUT UACR >30 mg/g can have up to 3.6 times increased risk of CV mortality. As a nephrologist, I’ve been vocal about the potential for this common urine test that we regularly perform, a UACR test, in helping detect CV risk, not just kidney damage, in more patients.
Author Interviews, Lymphoma / 17.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71819" align="alignleft" width="150"]Marco Davila Dr. Davila[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Marco Davila, MD, PhD Hematologist/Oncologist, Senior Vice President and Associate Director for Translational Research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (Buffalo, NY) - study senior author [caption id="attachment_71820" align="alignleft" width="150"]Co-author Meredith Stone, PhDAssistant Director for Cell Therapy Translation in Dr. Davila’s lab at Roswell Park - presenting author Dr. Stone[/caption] Co-author Meredith Stone, PhD Assistant Director for Cell Therapy Translation in Dr. Davila’s lab at Roswell Park - presenting author       MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: While CD19-targeted CAR T cell therapy has garnered clinical success and FDA approval for the treatment of large B cell lymphoma, approximately half of patients suffer from primary resistance or relapse. Increasing evidence suggests that resistance mechanisms are supported by the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cytokines secreted by CAR T cells can remodel the TME, determining the phenotype and function of other immune cells.
Author Interviews, Cancer Research / 17.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71812" align="alignleft" width="200"]Dr. Magdalena Zak PhD in Molecular BioscienceResearch Associate , Research Associate Instructor of Medicine, The Ear Institute University College London Dr. Zak[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Magdalena M. Żak, PhD Zangi Lab Instructor | Cardiovascular Research Institute Instructor | Genetics & Genomic Sciences Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine New York, NY 10029 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: mRNA has proven to be a groundbreaking technology through COVID-19 vaccines, and most mRNA-based therapeutics in development today are still focused on vaccines. However, in principle, mRNA could be used for many diseases in which expression of a therapeutic protein would be beneficial. A major reason mRNA is less commonly used outside of vaccines is the lack of robust targeting: for vaccination, broad expression can be acceptable because the goal is antigen production for immune recognition, but for other applications - especially cancer - targeted delivery and minimized off-target expression are critical to reduce side effects.  Current targeting strategies largely rely on lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), which act as lipid “carriers” for systemic delivery. Although LNPs can be designed to show some tissue tropism, this is often limited to organs such as the liver, spleen, and lungs.
ADHD, Author Interviews, Neurology, Pediatrics / 15.12.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71800" align="alignleft" width="200"]Dr. Ornella Dakwar-KawarHebrew University with Prof. Mor Nahum and Prof. Itai Berger Hebrew University  Dr. Dakwar-Kawar, PhD[/caption] Dr. Ornella Dakwar-Kawar Hebrew University with Prof. Mor Nahum and Prof. Itai Berger Hebrew University  in collaboration with Prof. Jyoti Mishra from the University of California San Diego (UCSD) Prof. Roi Cohen Kadosh from the University of Surre, Dr. Pragathi Priyadharsini and Ashwin Amal from ITT Karpur, India and InnoSphere Ltd MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Children with ADHD often exhibit aberrant neural activity, specifically imbalances in excitation and inhibition levels alongside dysfunction in brain networks like the frontoparietal network. While our previous research showed that Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation or tRNS improves clinical symptoms, the specific neural modulation effects during cognitive tasks remained unclear. This study investigated these mechanisms by analyzing the aperiodic exponent, a marker of excitation inhibition balance, during an inhibitory control task to compare children with ADHD to healthy controls and assess changes following tRNS combined with cognitive training. 
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Pain Research, PT-Rehabilitation / 15.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71791" align="aligncenter" width="500"]common-elbow-conditions.jpg Freepix image[/caption] The elbow is arguably one of the most used joints in the body. It allows us to bend our arm, which means it is used for most daily activities. From scratching your noise to playing sports, your elbow is a necessity. This means that when something is wrong with your elbow, it can be extremely frustrating and seriously impact your quality of life. Unfortunately, it can be quite difficult to know which elbow condition you’re experiencing, as there are so many of them. Let’s take a look at some of the most common elbow ailments, to give you a better idea of what you might be dealing with.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is one of the most common elbow conditions. It arises from repetitive stress on the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the bone. Symptoms include pain on the outside of the elbow, pain that radiates from the elbow down to the back of the hand, and a weakened ability to grip objects. Fortunately, tennis elbow is extremely treatable. For minor cases, rest, icing the elbow,  and the use of over-the-counter pain relievers may be all that is necessary. If these are not enough, physical therapy and the use of corticosteroids may be used. In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair the tendon.
Author Interviews, Heart Disease / 12.12.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71774" align="alignleft" width="150"] Prof. Fairbairn[/caption] Prof. Timothy Fairbairn MBChB, PhD FRCP  and [caption id="attachment_71775" align="alignleft" width="150"] Dr. Bell[/caption] Dr.  Jack Bell Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital Liverpool, UK   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is a non-invasive heart scan used in the first-line investigation of patients with suspected stable coronary artery disease (CAD). While CCTA clearly shows blockages in coronary arteries, it is limited in its ability to estimate reduced blood flow, which is necessary to diagnose angina. An artificial intelligence-based tool (Heartflow) has been developed that analyses CCTA images and provides an estimate of blood flow: CT-derived fractional flow reserve (FFR-CT). The real-world, retrospective English FISH&CHIPS study demonstrated that including FFR-CT as a decision-making tool in the diagnosis of stable CAD reduces the number of subsequent invasive and non-invasive tests performed. Whether FFR-CT could also be used prognostically, to predict future major cardiovascular events, was not fully understood. Previous studies have had small patient numbers, short follow-up and investigated combined cardiovascular outcomes. We performed an analysis on the national FISH&CHIPS population, which was large enough to determine if FFR-CT adds incremental value to traditional cardiovascular risk factors in predicting cardiovascular outcomes and death.
Author Interviews, Duke, Leukemia, Nature / 12.12.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71759" align="alignleft" width="200"]Dr. Hirschey Dr. Matthew Hirschey[/caption] Matthew Hirschey Ph.D. Associate Professor of Medicine Associate Professor of Cell Biology Associate Professor in Pharmacology and Cancer Biology Member of the Duke Cancer Institute Member of Sarah W. Stedman Nutrition and Metabolism Center Hirschey Lab in the Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you briefly describe AML and why new therapeutic approaches are needed? Response: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow and progresses rapidly. While recent advances, particularly the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax combined with other agents, have improved outcomes for some patients, many still relapse or don't respond to treatment. The five-year survival rate remains below 30% overall, highlighting an urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. We know that cancer cells rewire their metabolism to fuel rapid growth, and the mitochondria (the cell's powerhouses) play a central role. However, understanding exactly how different metabolic pathways connect and depend on each other has been challenging. We wanted to develop better tools to map these connections and identify new vulnerabilities we could potentially target.
Author Interviews, Gender Differences, Mental Health Research, Race/Ethnic Diversity / 07.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71691" align="alignleft" width="150"]MedicalResearch.com Interview with:Alexa T. Diianni, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger College of Health Sciences Scranton, PA 19409 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? During a previous study, my research team and I examined the financial conflicts of interest (COIs) between industry and academia- namely those that exist between authors of The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), and industry (1). The DSM is a diagnostic tool widely used for the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders, and is thus of interest in assessing COIs (1,2). We previously found that authors of the DSM-5-TR had received over $14.2m in undisclosed payments from industry (1). Our current study examines the gender and geographic disparities of the DSM-5-TR authors, in relation to these payments. While previous investigations have evaluated financial COIs in recent editions of the DSM (3,4), the demographic information of its authors has not yet been examined. Equitable representation of DSM authors is paramount as this manual serves a diverse population across the United States and beyond. It is important that the authorship of this manual be reflective of the population in which it serves, as there have been reported differences in both the type and prevalence of psychiatric care sought out by gender, as well as varying clinical treatment by geographic location (5-8). MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Of the 225 physicians that were identified as contributors to the DSM-5-TR task force, panels, and cross-cutting review groups, 116 contributors met the inclusion criteria of being a US-based physician with an active National Provider Identifier. Of these included individuals, 69.8% were men and 30.2% were women. Just three states accounted for 43.9% of contributors (New York, 17.2%; California, 14.7%; Massachusetts, 12.1%), while twenty-three states received no author representation. Of the total $14.6m in industry payments received by contributors, $13.2m (91.8%) was received by male contributors. Male contributors thus received an average of $287k in payment, while female contributors received $72k. MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report? Due to the prevalent use of the DSM, it is important that transparency regarding financial conflicts of interest exists, with COIs minimized moving forward to avoid implicit bias and pro-industry thought (1,9-15). Furthermore, it is important that future editions of the DSM be representative of the population in which it serves. This can be attained by selecting an adequate proportion of male and female contributors for the DSM, which may provide more robust perspectives on current diagnoses. Additionally, representation of contributors from all regions across the US will allow for a more diverse and informed perspective on diagnostic criteria, allowing for improved public health and patient care within the United States. MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study? As gender and geographic disparities were shown to be significant through this study, I believe it would be interesting to address additional areas of demographic disparities among authors. Additional areas to examine may include non-US-based physicians, non-MD/DO authors, as well as ethnic and racial disparities among authors. Finally, similar studies may be applied to additional clinical and diagnostic tools. Diagnostic manuals, such as the DSM, written by a diverse set of individuals, would provide unique perspectives that best reflect the population as a whole, and in turn, benefit patient care. For this reason, it is important that diagnostic manuals, such as the DSM, include a diverse set of authors that can provide adequate input regarding the patient population it serves. MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add? This research received no external funding. First author (AD) is employed by PerkinElmer, working on assignment at GlaxoSmithKline (2023-Present), outside of the submitted work; Last author (BP) contributed to an osteoarthritis research team supported by Pfizer and Eli Lilly (2019-21) and received grants from the Pennsylvania Academic Clinical Research Center, outside of the submitted work. New Paper Diianni AT, Davis LC, Piper BJ. Gender and geographic disparities among DSM-5-TR authors in relation to financial conflicts of interest and industry payments: cross-sectional analysis. BMJ Mental Health. 2025;28:e301913. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjment-2025-301913 References: 1. Davis LC, Diianni AT, Drumheller SR, Elansary NN, D’Ambrozio GN, Herrawi F, Piper BJ, Cosgrove L. Undisclosed financial conflicts of interest in DSM-5-TR: cross sectional analysis. BMJ. 2024;384. 2. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. 2022. 3. Cosgrove L, Krimsky S, Vijayaraghavan M, Schneider L. Financial ties between DSM-IV panel members and the pharmaceutical industry. Psychother Psychosom 2006;75:154-60. doi:10.1159/000091772. Pmid:16636630 4. Cosgrove L, Krimsky S. A comparison of DSM-IV and DSM-5 panel members’ financial associations with industry: a pernicious problem persists. PLoS Med2012;9:e1001190. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.1001190. Pmid:22427747 5. Piper BJ, Ogden CL, Simoyan OM, Chung DY, Caggiano JF, Nichols SD, et al. (2018) Trends in use of prescription stimulants in the United States and Territories, 2006 to 2016. PLoS ONE 13(11): e0206100. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0206100 6. Bareis N, Olfson M, Wall M, Stroup TS. Variation in Psychotropic Medication Prescription for Adults With Schizophrenia in the United States. Psychiatric Services. American Psychiatric Publishing; 2022;73(5):492–500. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.202000932 7. Tedstone Doherty D, Kartalova-O'Doherty Y. Gender and self-reported mental health problems: predictors of help seeking from a general practitioner. Br J Health Psychol. 2010;15(Pt 1):213-28. 8. Terlizzi EP, Schiller, Jeannine S. Mental health treatment among adults Aged 18–44: United States, 2019–2021. Report. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics; 2022. 9. Grande D, Frosch DL, Perkins AW, Kahn BE. Effect of exposure to small pharmaceutical promotional items on treatment preferences. Arch Intern Med. 2009;169(9):887-893. doi:10.1001/archinternmed.2009.64 10. Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Standards for Developing Trustworthy Clinical Practice Guidelines. In: Graham R, Mancher M, Miller Wolman D, et al., eds. Clinical Practice Guidelines We Can Trust. Washington (DC). National Academies Press, 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK209539/?report=classic, doi:10.17226/13058. 11. Wazana A. Physicians and the pharmaceutical industry: is a gift ever just a gift? JAMA 2000;283:373-80. doi:10.1001/jama.283.3.373. Pmid:10647801 12. Moore DA, Tanlu L, Bazerman MH. Conflict of interest and the intrusion of bias. Judgm Decis Mak 2010;5:37-53. doi:10.1017/S1930297500002023 13. Dana J, Loewenstein G. A social science perspective on gifts to physicians from industry. JAMA 2003;290:252-5. doi:10.1001/jama.290.2.252. Pmid:12851281 14. Nejstgaard CH, Bero L, Hróbjartsson A, et al. Association between conflicts of interest and favourable recommendations in clinical guidelines, advisory committee reports, opinion pieces, and narrative reviews: systematic review. BMJ 2020;371:m4234. doi:10.1136/bmj.m4234. Pmid:33298430 15. Thompson DF. The challenge of conflict of interest in medicine. Z Evid Fortbild Qual Gesundhwes 2009;103:136-40. doi:10.1016/j.zefq.2009.02.021. Pmid:19554887 Alexa T. Diianni[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Alexa T. Diianni, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger College of Health Sciences Scranton, PA 19409 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: During a previous study, my research team and I examined the financial conflicts of interest (COIs) between industry and academia- namely those that exist between authors of The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), and industry (1). The DSM is a diagnostic tool widely used for the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders, and is thus of interest in assessing COIs (1,2). We previously found that authors of the DSM-5-TR had received over $14.2m in undisclosed payments from industry (1). Our current study examines the gender and geographic disparities of the DSM-5-TR authors, in relation to these payments. While previous investigations have evaluated financial COIs in recent editions of the DSM (3,4), the demographic information of its authors has not yet been examined. Equitable representation of DSM authors is paramount as this manual serves a diverse population across the United States and beyond. It is important that the authorship of this manual be reflective of the population in which it serves, as there have been reported differences in both the type and prevalence of psychiatric care sought out by gender, as well as varying clinical treatment by geographic location (5-8). 
Allergies, Author Interviews, Dermatology / 06.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71677" align="alignleft" width="200"]Dr. Shaila Gogate, MDColorado Allergy & Asthma Centers Allergist REMIX-1/-2 Investigator  Dr. Gogate[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Shaila Gogate, MD Colorado Allergy & Asthma Centers Allergist REMIX-1/-2 Investigator MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? A: The Phase III REMIX-1/-2 studies were randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies assessing the efficacy and safety of oral  remibrutinib 25 mg twice daily or placebo over a 24-week double-blind period, followed by a 28-week open-label remibrutinib treatment period. The purpose of this pooled analysis was to examine the early and long-term efficacy data of remibrutinib vs. placebo over time, looking at the mean percentage change from baseline (CFB) in weekly scores of disease activity (UAS7), itch severity (ISS7) and hives severity (HSS7) over 52 weeks. This analysis demonstrated that remibrutinib showed reductions in urticaria symptoms vs. placebo as early as week 1:
    • 38.4% vs. 10.3% in UAS7
    • 37.0% vs. 9.8% in ISS7
    • 39.8% vs. 10.1% HSS7 Greater reductions vs. placebo were seen over 24 weeks and results were observed in the open-label period through week 52 in all remibrutinib-treated patients (including those transitioned from placebo).
Author Interviews, Psychedelics / 03.12.2025

Editor’s note: Please remember psychedelics remain illegal in most of the US and are not FDA tested or approved. Psychedelics and hallucinogens can have serious short and long term side effects and should be utilized only with careful medical supervision. [caption id="attachment_71656" align="alignleft" width="200"]dr-daniel-kruger Dr. Kruger[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Daniel J. Kruger, PhD Population Studies Center, Institute for Social Research University of Michigan MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this survey? Response: Multiple studies indicate that psychedelic use is at an all-time high. There are hundreds of clinical trials on the use of psychedelics and psychedelic-derived compounds for potential mental health benefits. Popular books like Michael Pollan’s “How to Change Your Mind” have raised public awareness of these substances and their potential benefits. Legislative changes in some areas have liberalized psychedelic access for therapy and personal use. Still, the vast majority of those who use psychedelics will use them outside of regulated, supervised settings. People are reporting both amazing therapeutic benefits as well as adverse experiences, and sometimes detrimental effects that last well beyond the trip. This study aimed to develop a risk-reduction resource to facilitate safe and successful psychedelic experiences outside of regulated settings. We employed a community-based approach to crowdsource practical recommendations for first-time psychedelic experiences from the psychedelic community.
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, PTSD / 27.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71569" align="aligncenter" width="500"]CPTSD Pexels[/caption] Complex post-traumatic stress disorder, often shortened to CPTSD or cPTSD, has moved from a niche clinical idea to a term many people now use for their own lived experience. At the same time, it is still not listed as a standalone diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). That leaves many people asking a very specific question: Will CPTSD be added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 2026? The most accurate answer is that there is currently no official commitment to adding complex PTSD to the DSM in 2026. As of late 2025, CPTSD is recognized in the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases, 11th edition (ICD-11), but not in the DSM-5 Text Revision (DSM-5 TR). Clinicians and researchers are actively debating whether a new CPTSD diagnosis should be included in a future DSM edition, yet no formal decision or fixed timeline has been announced. The question itself opens the door to important issues and questions, which MedicalResearch.com will review and address in this article. How do major diagnostic manuals change over time? Why is CPTSD in the ICD but not in the DSM? And what does any of this mean if you or someone you love is living with the effects of long-term trauma?
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA / 25.11.2025

Editor’ note:  Cannabis and THCA/HEMP CBD products should have an active ingredient list on the container and have a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Discuss your use of THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of CBD is variable, especially since it is not FDA regulated. Cannabis/CBD may interfere with other medications and should not be used in individuals with certain health conditions, including liver issues. CBD skin care products can be absorbed through the skin and have similar effects. Do not use Cannabis products including edibles and CBD if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant. Do not use cannabis products if driving or operating difficult or dangerous machinery. Children should not be exposed to cannabis or CBD products. [caption id="attachment_71501" align="alignleft" width="157"]Dr. Swartz Dr. Swartz[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: James A. Swartz, PhD Professor, Jane Addams College of Social Work University of Illinois Chicago MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: For the past 5 1/2 years, my project team has been charged with monitoring the public health effects of adult cannabis use legalization in Illinois. To fulfill that obligation, we have monitored state data and have tried to keep informed about ongoing research on cannabis legalization and public health. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) rose to the surface of this continual monitoring through a growing number of publications indicating the prevalence of this condition was on the rise and clinical case reports. As context, for any readers unfamiliar with the clinical syndrome, CHS is a paradoxical reaction to long-term, heavy cannabis use. Instead of relieving nausea, cannabis in some people appears to trigger cycles of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Patients often present repeatedly to emergency departments, undergo extensive workups, and only much later does someone connect the dots and consider CHS. Resource use is substantial. CHS visits often involve repeat ED presentations, imaging, laboratory testing, and sometimes hospital admission. Even though CHS is rarely life-threatening, it is not a trivial condition from either the patient’s or the system’s perspective.

Most of the existing literature has been case reports, small series, or single-center studies. Those reports clearly show that CHS can be debilitating and is frequently misdiagnosed, but they don’t tell us much about the bigger picture:

  • How often Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is showing up in emergency departments nationally
  • How those rates have changed over time, especially as cannabis policies and patterns of use have shifted
  • What the typical patient profile looks like at a population level

Our goal was to step back and use a large national emergency department database to describe CHS at scale in the United States from 2016 through 2022.

Cognitive Issues, ENT, Hearing Loss / 22.11.2025

Hearing is often described as a simple act of receiving sound, but in reality it’s a deeply interactive process. Every noise, voice, or melody you encounter sets off an intricate exchange between your ears and your brain. Your brain sorts through the chaos, interprets patterns, and gives meaning to what you hear. When hearing weakens, this seamless coordination becomes strained, and the brain must work harder to keep up. When sound input becomes faint or distorted, the brain starts compensating by trying to reconstruct what was missed. That extra mental effort drains cognitive resources that would normally support attention, memory, and comprehension. People may not notice the load they’re carrying until they begin feeling mentally tired, overwhelmed in conversation, or unable to follow speech in groups. Hearing loss also affects the brain’s auditory centers—the areas responsible for interpreting sound and supporting higher-level thinking skills. When these pathways receive less stimulation, they can weaken, which may influence broader cognitive functions over time. This connection helps explain why untreated hearing difficulties often coincide with challenges in focus, processing, or recall. Social behavior plays a role as well. When hearing becomes a struggle, many individuals gradually step back from group interactions or noisy environments. With fewer conversations and less meaningful auditory engagement, the brain loses important practice. This creates a circular pattern: difficulty hearing leads to less participation, which then reduces the brain’s exposure to the very stimulation that keeps it sharp.
Author Interviews / 20.11.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71487" align="alignleft" width="150"]Kristen D. Krause Dr. Krause[/caption] Kristen D. Krause, PhD, MPH (she/her/hers) Assistant Professor, Department of Urban-Global Public Health Deputy Director, Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies (CHIBPS) Rutgers School of Public Health Deputy Editor, Annals of LGBTQ Public and Population Health Deputy Editor, Behavioral Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Young sexual minority men often face myriad challenges including stigma, heightened risk for mental health issues, and an increased likelihood of substance use. This study set out to shine a light on how ADHD symptoms might factor into these risks—a topic rarely examined directly in this population. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  We found that ADHD symptoms are not only common, but they are associated with increased odds of both early and frequent substance use, spanning everything from cigarettes to alcohol and more illicit substances. These results don’t just fill a gap, they invite attention to a complex interplay of identity, mental health, and behavior.
Author Interviews, Multiple Sclerosis / 13.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71426" align="aligncenter" width="500"]multiple-sclerosis-ms-freepix Freepix image[/caption] Receiving a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a life-altering event, bringing with it many questions about the future. MS is a condition of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and the body. Its effects vary widely from person to person, but recent progress in medical science offers more hope and better outcomes than ever before. The focus of care has expanded from simply managing symptoms to actively slowing the condition's progression and improving overall quality of life. Modern approaches to managing MS have transformed what it means to live with the condition. With a growing range of therapies, people with MS now have more opportunities to maintain their independence and continue participating in the activities they enjoy. These developments reflect a deeper recognition of how the disease works, leading to more targeted and convenient treatment plans.

Evolving Therapeutic Approaches

The main goal of modern MS treatments is to modify the course of the disease. These therapies, known as disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), work to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, which are periods when symptoms flare up. Over the years, the administration of these treatments has become more convenient. While injectable medications were once the standard, many effective oral and infused options are now available, offering more flexibility for individuals. These newer medications are designed to target specific parts of the immune system that are involved in the MS process. This targeted approach helps to protect the brain and spinal cord from damage, slowing the advancement of disability associated with the condition. The availability of different types of DMTs allows healthcare professionals to tailor treatment plans to an individual's specific form of MS and their lifestyle.
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Opiods / 13.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71419" align="alignleft" width="150"]MedicalResearch.com Interview with:Victoria Bethel, MSN Department of Public Administration and Policy University of Georgia, Athens Victoria Bethel[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Victoria Bethel, MSN Department of Public Administration and Policy University of Georgia, Athens   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: From the same pool of commercially insured patients, we found that cannabis dispensary openings were associated with reduced opioid prescribing among patients with non-cancer pain. For this study, we examined whether cannabis dispensary openings were also associated with reduced opioid prescribing among commercially insured patients who do have a cancer diagnosis. Similar to patients without cancer, we estimated reductions in opioid prescribing after medical and recreational cannabis dispensaries open. These findings may suggest that patients who experience cancer pain are able to manage their pain with cannabis instead of requiring opioids, although we cannot directly observe substitution.
Author Interviews, Dermatology, Nutrition / 11.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71365" align="aligncenter" width="500"]pexels-skin-health-and-nutrition.jpg Photo by Raymond Petrik:[/caption] The health of your skin is often considered an external issue. However, your skin’s condition can reflect what’s happening inside your body, particularly in relation to your diet. In recent years, research has highlighted the importance of nutrition in maintaining healthy skin. Whether you are dealing with acne, eczema, or aging skin, what you eat plays a crucial role in its appearance and function. Understanding how food impacts your skin can be the key to better skin health and effective management of skin conditions. Let’s dive into the science of diet and skin health and explore how specific nutrients can affect your complexion.

The Link Between Diet and Skin

Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it functions as a protective barrier, regulating temperature, preventing dehydration, and protecting you from harmful pathogens. However, like any other organ, the health of your skin depends on several internal factors including the nutrients you consume. One study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a poor diet, particularly one high in processed foods and sugar, was linked to an increased risk of developing acne and other skin issues. This is a significant finding as it suggests that skin conditions may not just be the result of external factors, such as pollution or skincare products, but also the direct result of the food you put into your body.
Author Interviews, Education / 11.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71362" align="aligncenter" width="500"]explaining-medical-research-to-public Photo by Ivan S[/caption] Groundbreaking discoveries are happening every day in labs around the world, yet most people can't access or understand this vital information. The gap between scientific research and public understanding is wider than most researchers think. When scientists struggle to communicate their findings effectively, important research gets buried in academic journals where it collects dust instead of making an impact. Meanwhile, the public misses out on knowledge that could improve their lives, inform their decisions and shape their understanding of the world. Whether you're a researcher, science communicator or educator, making complex information accessible can amplify your impact and ensure your work reaches the people who need it most.

Why Simplifying Scientific Research Matters

Before diving into strategies, it's worth understanding why this matters. Scientific literacy affects everything from public health decisions to environmental policy. When people can't understand research, they're more likely to fall for misinformation or dismiss legitimate findings altogether. Additionally, most scientific research receives public funding. Taxpayers deserve to understand what their money is supporting and how it benefits society. Simplifying research isn't "dumbing it down" - it's democratizing knowledge and making science more inclusive.
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Schizophrenia / 07.11.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71333" align="alignleft" width="100"]Ian Kelleher PhD, MB BCh BAO (Medicine)Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Academy of Medical Sciences Professor Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research University of Edinburgh  Prof. Kelleher[/caption] Ian Kelleher PhD, MB BCh BAO (Medicine) Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Academy of Medical Sciences Professor Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research University of Edinburgh MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response:  Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness associated with hallucinations, delusions and a marked decline in functioning. It usually begins in adulthood, in the 20s, but we know from recent research that as many as half of all individuals who develop schizophrenia had attended child and adolescent psychiatry services earlier in life for other mental health problems. That’s exciting because it suggests: maybe there’s something we could do to reduce risk of schizophrenia in adolescent psychiatry services. But, at present, we don’t have evidence that any intervention reduces schizophrenia risk in this clinical population. Lots of researchers are interested in the antibiotic doxycycline, and the structurally similarly minocycline, because it has potential neuroprotective effects. It crosses the blood brain barrier and seems to reduce inflammation and apoptosis (or programmed cell death). We think that excessive synaptic pruning may play a key role in the development of schizophrenia. In laboratory studies, doxycycline seems to reduce the level of synaptic pruning by its effect on the immune system. Some research suggests that even low dose exposure to doxycycline may lead to long-term effects in “dampening down” activity by microglia, the brain’s resident macrophages, which are central to the process of synaptic pruning.
Author Interviews, Heart Disease, Pharmacology / 05.11.2025

In medicine, we often picture massive, straight-line progress: hypothesis to experiment to result. But the truth is, many of the greatest leaps forward start with something much smaller—an unexpected signal, a moment of deep curiosity, or what scientists playfully call a "blip". That’s exactly how the groundbreaking story of XXB750 began. In a Novartis research lab, scientists noticed a subtle irregularity in the data—something that simply didn't fit their expectations. The easy thing would have been to ignore it, to write it off as an error. Instead, they decided to dig deeper. That single decision, driven by curiosity, is what led to a potential new therapy for heart failure and resistant hypertension—two conditions that profoundly affect millions worldwide. This isn't just a clinical breakdown of molecules and lab tests; it’s a powerful reminder that behind every breakthrough lies persistence, genuine curiosity, and an unwavering desire to give patients a better life. discovery-transform-heart-failure-treatment
Author Interviews, Dermatology / 05.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71306" align="aligncenter" width="500"]treating-adult-acne-jawline Freepix image[/caption] Are you still battling acne in your 30s, 40s, or beyond? Adult acne presents unique challenges that differ from adolescent breakouts, manifesting as inflammatory papules, pustules, comedones, and sometimes painful cystic lesions along the jawline, chin, and lower face. Hormonal fluctuations, stress-induced cortisol elevation, and compromised skin barrier function create a complex treatment landscape requiring targeted interventions. Dermatologists approach adult acne through combination therapies addressing both active lesions and underlying triggers while preventing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation common in mature skin. If you’re struggling with persistent acne that overlaps with sensitivity or eczema, consulting the best dermatologist in Singapore for eczema can help you receive a more holistic and tailored approach — balancing acne control with skin barrier repair for long-term skin health.
Author Interviews, Education / 03.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71246" align="aligncenter" width="500"]RBT vs. BCBA Photo by Husna Miskandar on Unsplash[/caption] In the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), you will often see the qualifications “RBT” and “BCBA.” While both play important roles in behaviour-analytic services, they differ significantly in terms of education, responsibilities, autonomy, and career trajectory. For those preparing to enter the field or advance their credentials, using an RBT mock exam can be an excellent way to test your knowledge, identify areas for improvement, and build confidence before certification. Understanding these differences is essential if you’re considering entering the field, either as a direct service provider or a supervisor/analyst.

Defining the Roles

What is an RBT?

A Registered Behavior Technician is a credentialed paraprofessional who works under the supervision of a BCBA (or, in some cases, a higher-level behaviour analyst). Their primary function is to provide direct, hands-on services to clients: implementing behaviour intervention plans, collecting data, assisting with skill acquisition and behaviour reduction strategies.

What is a BCBA?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst is a practitioner who has completed graduate-level education, supervised experience, and a certification examination. BCBAs are qualified to conduct assessments, design behaviour intervention plans, supervise RBTs, track outcomes, and make clinical decisions.
AI and HealthCare, Author Interviews, Electronic Records, Technology / 02.11.2025

[caption id="attachment_71238" align="aligncenter" width="500"]electronic-ai-medical-records Photo by Karola G[/caption] Medical documentation has always been one of those chores nobody really enjoys. Hours typing notes. Filling out charts. Updating records. All while patients wait, shifts keep rolling, and stress quietly creeps in. AI-powered transcription is slowly changing that. Quietly, almost invisibly. Tasks that used to feel like a slog are now happening faster, cleaner, and honestly, a lot less painfully. Speed Without Sacrificing Accuracy The biggest win? Speed. A doctor can dictate notes while seeing a patient. Minutes later, a clean transcript pops up. No more sitting at a computer after every appointment. No more juggling files. But speed alone isn’t enough. Accuracy is huge. One wrong number. One misheard symptom. And suddenly, the stakes are high. Modern AI transcription tools are actually pretty impressive. They catch tricky medical terms, common abbreviations, and sometimes even rival human transcriptionists. Some systems will even flag unclear words in real-time — little nudges that save headaches later. The mix of speed and accuracy? That’s what makes them genuinely useful. Notes happen almost automatically, letting clinicians focus on what really matters: patients. Breaking Language Barriers Healthcare doesn’t stop at borders. Clinics see patients from all sorts of backgrounds. Traditionally, that meant delays, miscommunication, and guesswork (not ideal). AI transcription is changing that. Some platforms even handle german voice to text & translate. A doctor can speak in German, and the system handles transcription and translation instantly. It’s not just faster. Notes are clearer. Staff don’t have to scramble to interpret them. Communication across languages actually improves. Multilingual transcription isn’t just a nice feature anymore — it’s becoming essential in modern healthcare.
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, JAMA, Weight Research / 02.11.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71229" align="alignleft" width="125"]Dr. Bian Jiang Dr. Bian Jiang[/caption] Jiang Bian, PhD Associate Dean of Data Science Walther and Regenstrief Professor of Cancer Informatics Professor of Biostatistics & Health Data Science Adjunct Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Informatics Chief Data Scientist, Regenstrief Institute Chief Data ScientistCustomize & Schedule Social Media Posts Indiana University Health [caption id="attachment_71230" align="alignleft" width="125"]Serena Jingchuan Guo Dr. Serena Guo[/caption] Serena Jingchuan Guo, MD PhD Assistant Professor Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy University of Florida College of Pharmacy [caption id="attachment_71231" align="alignleft" width="125"]Hao Dai, PhD Dr. Hao Dai[/caption] Hao Dai, PhD Postdoctoral Fellow Department of Biostatistics & Health Data Science Indiana University School of Medicine       MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: Obesity and type 2 diabetes are both known to increase the risk of several cancers. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have become very popular for both glycemic control and weight loss, but their long-term effects on cancer risk are still unclear. Using a large real-world dataset, we emulated a target trial comparing more than 43,000 GLP-1RA users to matched non-users. We found that GLP-1RA use was associated with a significantly lower overall cancer risk.
Author Interviews, Neurology / 22.10.2025

[caption id="attachment_71069" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Science Behind QEEG Brain Mapping Unsplash image[/caption] Understanding how the brain functions has always been one of science’s most fascinating and complex challenges. Today, advanced technologies like quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) are making it possible to visualize brain activity in ways that were once unimaginable. Known simply as brain mapping, this innovative process offers a window into the intricate electrical patterns that define how we think, feel, and behave. By measuring and analyzing brainwave activity, QEEG is revolutionizing the way medical professionals diagnose and treat a wide range of neurological and psychological conditions.

What Is QEEG Brain Mapping?

QEEG Brain Mapping is a specialized form of electroencephalography (EEG) that quantifies and analyzes the brain’s electrical activity. Unlike a standard EEG, which simply records brainwave patterns, QEEG uses advanced algorithms to convert this raw data into detailed visual maps. These maps highlight areas of the brain that are overactive, underactive, or out of balance. Clinicians can then use these insights to better understand how different brain regions are functioning and interacting. The data from a QEEG is often compared to a large database of “normative” brain activity. This allows specialists to identify deviations that may be linked to conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, traumatic brain injury, or cognitive decline. The ability to pinpoint these irregularities provides a more objective foundation for diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.
Author Interviews, Herpes Viruses, Inflammation, Vaccine Studies / 21.10.2025

[caption id="attachment_71064" align="alignleft" width="200"]Ali Dehghani, DODepartment of Medicine University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center / Case Western Reserve University Presenting Author, IDWeek 2025 Dr. Dehghani[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ali Dehghani, DO Department of Medicine University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center / Case Western Reserve University Presenting Author, IDWeek 2025 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which can inflame blood vessels and the nervous system. Evidence over the past decade has linked shingles to higher risks of heart attack, stroke, and dementia—but it was unclear whether the shingles vaccine might lessen those long-term effects.   [caption id="attachment_71061" align="aligncenter" width="500"]herpes-zoster-cdc-image CDC PHIL Image[/caption] MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  Using data from over 100 U.S. health systems, we followed adults age 50 and older for up to five years. We found that people who developed shingles had a 20–30% higher risk of cardiovascular events, vascular dementia, and death compared with similar adults without shingles. Those who had received the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) before their infection had substantially lower long-term risks—about 25% fewer major cardiac events, 40% lower early mortality, and nearly 50% less vascular dementia over time.
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, PT-Rehabilitation / 20.10.2025

[caption id="attachment_71041" align="alignleft" width="200"]chris-church Chris Church[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Chris Church MPT Director, Gait & Motion Analysis Laboratory Nemours duPont Hospital for Children MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you briefly describe the condition of clubfoot and arthrogryposis? Response: Clubfoot is a congenital foot deformity in which the child is born with their foot (or feet) are stiff and in position with the foot pointing down (equinus) and in (inverted).  Idiopathic clubfoot is a condition in which these children only have issues with their feet.  Arthrogryposis is a condition in which children have contractures in multiple parts of their body.  Children with Arthrogryposis often have clubfeet that are tighter and more difficult to treat than the more common idiopathic type. Idiopathic clubfoot is effectively corrected with a conservative treatment known as the Ponseti method. Recent studies have shown successful short-term correction using Ponseti treatment in the stiffer clubfoot associated with arthrogryposis, but there are few studies analyzing long-term results. This study compares outcomes of the Ponseti method in 10-year-old children with idiopathic clubfoot and clubfoot associated with arthrogryposis. MedicalResearch.com: Would you describe the Ponseti method? Does it require specialized or complicated training to implement treatment? Response: Clubfoot was treated with surgery in the past.  Now we use a more conservative treatment that is provided by pediatric orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists.  The Ponseti method involved serial casting in infancy, Achillies tenotomies, and prolonged use of bracing during sleep until age 5 years. [caption id="attachment_71050" align="alignleft" width="300"]ClubfootNemours Image Clubfoot
Nemours Image[/caption] [caption id="attachment_71051" align="alignleft" width="300"]Clubfoot Nemours Image Clubfoot
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