ALFRED V. HESS, MD

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The study looked at different methods for correcting the motion of the heart during MRI scans, specifically focusing on a new technique called MNav-CoS. Researchers found that MNav-CoS produced results similar to other common methods while being three times faster than the traditional breath-hold technique. This is important because quicker scans can make MRI procedures more efficient, especially for patients who may struggle with holding their breath. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart MRIs, particularly those who have difficulty with breath-holding.

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This study looked at the brains of 114 people with anorexia nervosa (AN) and compared them to 114 healthy individuals to see how certain brain changes relate to the levels of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that help brain cells communicate. Researchers found that areas of the brain that were thinner in people with AN also had higher levels of a specific receptor linked to brain activity and glucose use. This is important because it shows that brain changes in AN are connected to serious symptoms like depression and may help identify individuals who need different types of treatment based on their brain activity. Who this helps: This helps patients with anorexia nervosa by guiding doctors in personalizing treatment approaches.

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This study looks at how to better repair the heart after a heart attack (myocardial infarction) by using special imaging techniques to track immune responses and tissue scarring. It finds that the early immune response and connection to scar tissue can significantly affect recovery, showing that targeted therapies may only work well for certain patients, stressing the importance of personalized treatments. The research aims to develop new ways to visualize these processes in the body, helping doctors select the right treatments based on individual patient needs. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have experienced a heart attack and their doctors.

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This study looked at how the brains of patients with left-sided temporal lobe epilepsy (LTLE), which affects memory and language, adapt when there's damage in the left hippocampus. Researchers compared eight LTLE patients with eight healthy individuals and found that while the connection to the hippocampus was weaker, the overall connectivity in the brain was stronger, which suggests the brain is compensating for this damage. This matters because understanding these compensatory mechanisms can help improve treatments and support for LTLE patients, particularly those struggling with cognitive issues and mood symptoms. Who this helps: This benefits patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how blocking a specific channel in the brain called HCN4 affects how mice process acute pain. Researchers found that mice genetically modified to lack the HCN4 channel were more sensitive to pain, showing increased brain activity in areas that deal with pain discrimination and emotional responses. In contrast, when HCN4 was blocked using a medication, the mice showed less brain activity and were less sensitive to pain. This research matters because it helps us understand different ways the HCN4 channel affects pain, which could lead to better pain management strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with acute pain.

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This study focuses on a new program aimed at helping veterans who are overweight or obese. The program includes visits with trained professionals, access to various weight-loss treatments, and coordinated team care. The goal is to measure how much weight veterans lose after 18 months, compared to those only in a standard weight-loss program. If successful, this new program could lead to better health outcomes for veterans struggling with weight management. Who this helps: This helps veterans dealing with overweight and obesity.

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The study introduces DNAvi, a new tool that helps scientists quickly analyze and visualize cell-free DNA fragments without needing detailed sequencing. It allows for easy comparison of DNA samples and creates professional-looking graphics, making it easier for researchers to check quality and explore DNA fragment data. This is important because it streamlines research and clinical processes, making it faster to study DNA for various health-related applications. Who this helps: Researchers and clinicians working with DNA analysis.

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This study focused on developing a new method called CLUB-Sandwich that rapidly and accurately maps magnetic field inconsistencies in high-strength MRI scans using techniques enhanced by deep learning. Testing with 11 healthy volunteers showed that this method could produce reliable magnetic field maps in under 10 seconds, achieving a strong correlation with traditional mapping methods (with a correlation of over 0.97) while significantly speeding up the process—a deep learning approach produced results in just 5 seconds compared to 4 minutes for the other method. This is important as it allows for quicker assessments during MRI exams, leading to better patient care and more efficient use of imaging technology. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients undergoing high-strength MRI scans.

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This study explored how DNA changes in cells can be used to track the effects of treatments without harming the cells themselves. Researchers found that by analyzing free-floating DNA in the culture fluid, they could quickly and accurately assess how different treatments affected cell behavior. This method offers a convenient way to monitor cell responses, which can be valuable for developing new therapies and understanding diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients and researchers working on new treatments.

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This study explored the relationships between soft corals and specific tiny organisms called dinoflagellates, which live inside the corals and help them thrive. Researchers identified five new species of dinoflagellates, two of which are commonly found across the Indo-Pacific and two that are unique to specific locations like Zanzibar and Palau. Understanding these species is important because as ocean temperatures rise, soft corals are becoming more prevalent, and knowing more about their helpers can lead to better insights into coral reef health and productivity. Who this helps: This helps coral researchers and marine conservationists.

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This study explored how different types of immune cells, specifically macrophages and neutrophils, affect inflammation in the heart and brain after a heart attack. Researchers found that when macrophages were removed before a heart attack, it reduced their presence in the heart but led to increased inflammation in the brain during the first week after the attack. The study also showed that neutrophils are important for heart repair but do not significantly impact brain inflammation, indicating a complex relationship between these immune cells. Who this helps: This research benefits patients recovering from heart attacks by providing insights into how their immune response may affect healing and cognitive function.

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This study created a survey to understand how university students experience negative interactions with healthcare providers, such as disrespect or coercion. Researchers spoke with 38 students in focus groups and individual interviews, identifying key issues like poor communication and lack of respect for personal identity. The final survey tool has 64 to 70 questions and will help measure how often these problematic interactions occur among students. Who this helps: This benefits university students who may face challenges in healthcare settings.

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This study focused on a type of molecule called long noncoding RNA, specifically one named TILAM, which plays a role in liver fibrosis, a condition that can lead to serious liver disease. Researchers found that when TILAM is activated in liver cells, it influences the production of collagen and other proteins that contribute to scarring in the liver. They noted that removing TILAM in mouse models resulted in less liver scarring, indicating it could be a potential target for new treatments to prevent severe liver disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic liver conditions and doctors seeking new treatment options.

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Researchers studied the use of back exosuits by 146 warehouse workers to see how likely they were to continue using these devices to prevent back injuries. They found that 80% of the workers (117 out of 146) were willing to keep using the exosuits, mainly because they felt the suits were effective and didn't disrupt their work. This is important because it shows that if workers believe a device helps them without interfering with their tasks, they are more likely to use it, potentially leading to fewer back injuries on the job. Who this helps: This helps warehouse workers and employers looking to improve workplace safety.

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This study looked at how university students with different sexual orientations and gender identities experienced disrespectful or harmful health care. It found that 17 out of 18 types of negative experiences were reported more frequently by students who identify as part of minoritized sexual and gender groups compared to heterosexual and cisgender students. For example, gender and sexual minority students were more than three times as likely to experience inappropriate touching during exams than their heterosexual peers. This matters because understanding these disparities can lead to better training for health care providers and improve the experiences of vulnerable student populations. Who this helps: This helps university students, especially those from minoritized sexual and gender groups.

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This study looked at how the brain reacts to different types of pain in rats, specifically incisional pain (like from a surgical cut) and inflammatory pain (caused by infection). The researchers found that these types of pain create unique patterns in brain activity, which makes it harder for the brain to tell the difference between different types of pain signals. Identifying these patterns can lead to better ways to diagnose and treat pain in humans. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from chronic pain and doctors treating them.

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This research focused on improving how brain images are taken and analyzed in rats using fMRI, which is a technique that shows brain activity. The study created a standardized method that has been tested across 20 different research centers, making it easier to compare results from different studies. This matters because it will help researchers discover small effects in brain activity more reliably and contribute to better understanding of the brain's functions in various conditions. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working with animal models to ensure consistency and accuracy in their studies.

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This study looked at the link between a substance called orexin-A found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease, and cognitive abilities in older adults. Researchers found that orexin-A levels were connected to several Alzheimer’s biomarkers, but interestingly, there were no differences in orexin-A between those with and without Alzheimer's, and it did not relate to cognitive performance. This matters because understanding these relationships might help identify new markers for Alzheimer’s or better understand sleep’s role in the disease. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on Alzheimer’s disease.

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This study looked at how a protein called Pumilio helps control where specific messages (mRNA) are located within brain cells of fruit flies. Researchers found that Pumilio prefers to bind to longer versions of these mRNAs, which tend to stay in the cell body, while shorter versions make their way to the synapses, where nerve cells connect. When Pumilio wasn't functioning properly, it led to problems with nerve cell growth and too much protein accumulating at the connections, highlighting how crucial Pumilio is for proper cell function. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on neurological disorders.

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This study looked at how a specific protein, fibroblast activation protein (FAP), is present in heart tissues after a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to find that FAP levels are highest three days after the attack, especially in areas of the heart that are damaged but still receiving some blood flow. They found that this understanding of FAP can help in identifying heart injury more accurately, which is important for better treatment and recovery strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from heart attacks and the doctors treating them.

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This study examined how a hormone called osteocalcin (OCN) affects brain function in mice. Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to identify key brain areas impacted by OCN, discovering that it plays an important role in managing mood and cognitive abilities. Specifically, they found that OCN influences regions involved in emotion and memory, highlighting its potential link to issues like anxiety and depression. Who this helps: This research benefits patients dealing with anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments, as well as doctors exploring new treatments.

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This study looked at 730 children who had heart surgeries to understand their recovery and any complications. It found that 40.4% of these children went back to the Pediatric Emergency Department within the first year after surgery, with those having single ventricle defects needing more emergency care compared to those with biventricular repairs (69.3% vs 53.7%). Knowing these patterns helps doctors prepare better for the specific needs of young patients after heart surgery. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients and their caregivers by improving post-surgery care and management.

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This study looked at a new way to use C3-liposomes to deliver a cancer vaccine targeting a protein called MUC1, which is commonly found in many tumors. The researchers found that mice vaccinated with these C3-liposomes had smaller tumors—about 50% smaller—compared to those given the vaccine without the liposomes. Interestingly, male mice responded better to the vaccine than female mice, suggesting that sex differences play a role in how well the vaccine works. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients by improving vaccine effectiveness and may inform tailored treatments based on sex.

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This study looked at how brain activity related to pain might predict how well rheumatoid arthritis patients respond to a treatment called certolizumab pegol, a type of TNF inhibitor. Out of 139 patients, 57% in the group with high brain pain activity showed low disease activity after 12 weeks, compared to only 26% in the placebo group, indicating that those with higher brain disease representation are more likely to benefit from this treatment. This matters because it helps identify which patients might respond better to TNF inhibitors, improving treatment decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their doctors in making more informed treatment choices.

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This study looked at how to collect and track health and safety policies from colleges and universities, not just from state and federal governments. It found that while it is easy to access laws at the government level, gathering policies from higher education institutions presents challenges, such as lack of central databases. This matters because understanding these policies can help improve public health efforts on campuses. Who this helps: This helps students, faculty, and health officials.

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This study examined brain activity in mice using a technique called fMRI while they experienced pain from heat. Researchers analyzed brain regions associated with pain and found that highly active brain areas showed different gene activity compared to less active areas, with significant differences in neurotransmitter-related functions. Understanding these gene expression patterns could improve how we interpret brain imaging data and lead to better insight into pain processing in the brain. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying pain and may benefit doctors in developing treatments for pain management.

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This study looked at a protein called CXCR4 in patients who suffered a heart attack (referred to as acute myocardial infarction). Researchers found that higher levels of CXCR4 in the heart early after the heart attack were linked to better heart function about eight months later; specifically, the heart's pumping ability improved from an average of 46.5% to 49.1%. These findings are important because they suggest that measuring CXCR4 can help doctors predict how well a patient's heart will recover after a heart attack and may guide treatment options. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from heart attacks and their doctors in making informed treatment decisions.

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This study looked at brain scans from 220 rats across 12 different research centers to see how well their findings matched up when using functional MRI (fMRI). Researchers found that while they could identify brain activity in all 22 datasets, differences in how experiments were conducted led to variations in results. This is important because it shows the need for standardizing testing methods, which could make future fMRI studies more reliable and comparable. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and veterinary scientists working with animal models.

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This study examined how sleep patterns change over time in older adults, both with and without signs of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), over about 3.5 years. Researchers used sleep questionnaires and a home sleep monitoring device, finding that while self-reported sleep quality varied a lot, the more technical brainwave measurements showed little change. These findings are important for planning future research on sleep and brain health because they highlight how sleep metrics can differ, which can affect the design of studies aimed at understanding cognitive decline. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors studying the relationship between sleep and Alzheimer's disease.

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This study looked at how doctors can quickly interpret head CT scans to predict whether patients with serious brain injuries would need surgery or might die within 24 hours. Out of 444 patients, 21.4% either died or needed surgery, with CT scan abnormalities significantly increasing these risks: only 5.8% of patients with normal scans faced these outcomes compared to 52.0% with any abnormalities. These findings matter because they provide a straightforward way for trauma teams to identify patients at higher risk, leading to faster and potentially lifesaving decisions. Who this helps: This helps trauma doctors and their patients with serious brain injuries.

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This study looked at how well two different imaging centers could measure inflammation and fibroblast activity in mice after a heart attack. The researchers found that using a standardized imaging protocol improved the consistency of the results, particularly with one specific tracer used to assess inflammation, which showed a notable increase (with a value of 0.03) when the consensus method was applied. This research matters because it highlights the importance of uniform methods in multi-center studies to ensure reliable and comparable results in future heart disease research. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and clinicians working on heart disease treatments.

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This study looked at how well baby boomers—people born between 1946 and 1964—can use online health resources. Researchers surveyed nearly 1,000 people from the U.S., U.K., and New Zealand and found four different groups among them based on their ability to find and use health information online. Understanding these differences is important because it helps health providers create better tools and services that meet the specific needs of older adults. Who this helps: Patients, particularly those in the baby boomer generation.

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This study examined the perceptions of people involved in the bison meat industry, collected data on bison production and their welfare, and identified factors that affect the quality of bison meat. Researchers surveyed 110 stakeholders, finding that 94% support industry growth and believe animal welfare impacts meat quality. They discovered that about 97% of bison had at least one bruise before slaughter, and factors like facility design and animal handling play a crucial role in both animal well-being and meat quality. Who this helps: This benefits bison farmers and meat producers by improving industry standards and meat quality.

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This study looked at changes in brain networks in a special type of rat known as GAERS, which is used to model genetic absence epilepsy. Researchers found that even at a young age, these rats showed stronger connections in certain brain areas compared to normal rats; specifically, their brain networks related to movement and sensory processing were more active. It's important because these early network changes could impact brain function more than the seizures themselves. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors who treat epilepsy in children.

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This study looked at how the neutral sphingomyelinase (NSM) protein affects the brain when alcohol is consumed, both in the short term and over a longer period. Researchers found that chronic alcohol use in mice changed brain structure and function; specifically, it reduced the size of certain brain areas, which was prevented when NSM activity was lowered. The study showed that when NSM was not fully active, the brain responded differently to alcohol, which could lead to better strategies for managing alcohol use disorder. Who this helps: This research can benefit patients struggling with alcohol use disorder and their doctors.

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This study focused on a new support tool called BONE Break, created to help nurses cope after experiencing adverse events, such as medical errors. The tool was used in 43 out of 46 situations and 95% of the sessions were found to be helpful for the nurses involved. This matters because it offers a structured way to support nurses, helping to reduce feelings of distress and burnout during a challenging time in healthcare. Who this helps: This helps nurses dealing with the stress of adverse events and improves their overall well-being.

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This study looked at how the brains of young people and adults with anorexia nervosa (AN) react to food images and actual food consumption. Researchers found that young people with AN showed stronger brain activity when eating high-calorie foods compared to healthier peers, while adults with AN had less brain activity, indicating a decrease in responsiveness over time. Understanding these differences helps us grasp why eating behaviors can become deeply entrenched in people with AN. Who this helps: This helps patients with anorexia nervosa and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at 100 popular YouTube videos about sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) to see what information is being shared. It found that most videos came from reliable sources like healthcare organizations, but they mostly focused on SIDS prevention right after birth rather than raising awareness or providing information for countries outside the U.S. This matters because improving SIDS education and prevention strategies can help reduce infant deaths globally. Who this helps: Parents and healthcare providers seeking information about SIDS prevention.

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This study examined how soil moisture sensors, which track water content in green stormwater systems, can be calibrated for more accurate readings. Researchers found that using specific soil calibrations led to significantly better performance measures, showing faster drying times—about an hour quicker for desaturation and a day faster for recovery. Accurate measurements matter because they prevent misinterpretations of how well these systems manage water and ensure they’re functioning as intended. Who this helps: This helps engineers and city planners designing stormwater management systems.

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This research focused on comparing two types of brain imaging, 3T and 7T fMRI, to see how effectively they can detect changes in brain activity after performing a simple motor task. The study found that 7T fMRI was able to identify specific patterns of brain connectivity related to memory processing that the 3T fMRI could not detect. This means that using 7T fMRI can provide earlier and more detailed insights into how the brain processes memories after completing tasks, which can be crucial for diagnosing and treating neurological conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors working with neurological disorders.

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This study looked at myocardial fibrosis, a condition that contributes to heart failure. Researchers found that new anti-fibrosis treatments are being tested and that advanced imaging techniques, like cardiac MRI, can help identify and measure this fibrosis in the heart. This is important because personalized treatment plans can be developed based on precise imaging, improving outcomes for patients with heart issues. Who this helps: Patients with heart failure and their doctors.

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This study looked at the impact of delaying elective surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), a common skin cancer. Researchers found that without timely surgery, these cancers could grow larger and spread, leading to worse outcomes for patients. Timely treatment is crucial because early intervention with limited surgery generally leads to better recovery and fewer complications. Who this helps: This helps patients with skin cancer who need timely surgical treatment.

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This study looked at how autistic young adults manage their healthcare over time, focusing on their ability to handle tasks like making appointments and taking medications. Researchers found that those who self-reported their experiences improved in healthcare independence significantly over a year, with many showing better skills in keeping appointments and managing medications. However, those who had their experiences reported by others didn't show the same level of improvement, indicating that some autistic individuals may need more help to gain these skills. Who this helps: This research benefits autistic young adults and their caregivers by highlighting the need for tailored support in healthcare.

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This study investigated different ways to create liver models that mimic metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which is a liver condition without many treatment options. Researchers tested three methods using different substances, finding that while all models showed signs of inflammation, only one method (TGF-β1) caused significant liver damage and scarring. This research is important because it sets a foundation for developing better lab models to test new treatments for MASLD, helping scientists understand the disease better. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases and researchers developing new therapies.

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This study focused on a new assessment tool called the ACES-Pro, created to evaluate how well surgical trainees perform in virtual oral exams during their residency, especially after the shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers found that nine experienced surgeons could reliably score exam performances on communication skills and the effective use of technology, with strong agreement in their evaluations (scores of 0.796 for verbal communication, 0.916 for non-verbal communication, and 0.739 for technology use). This is important because it means that this new tool can help ensure surgical trainees are effectively prepared for future virtual exams, which may become more common. Who this helps: This helps surgical trainees who need to demonstrate their skills in a virtual exam format.