DR. CHARLES L. COLE JR., MD

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The study examined how parents and healthcare staff felt about a method called "opt-out consent" used in a trial for preterm babies in neonatal intensive care. It involved giving parents the option to verbally decline their baby's participation in the trial, with 253 people (167 staff and 86 parents) providing feedback. The results showed strong support for this consent method, but some parents felt overwhelmed when approached soon after giving birth, suggesting timing is crucial for effective communication. Who this helps: This helps parents of preterm babies and healthcare professionals involved in neonatal care.

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The neoGASTRIC trial is studying whether skipping the routine measurement of stomach contents in preterm infants can help them reach full feeding quicker without increasing the risk of serious gut issues like necrotising enterocolitis. The trial will include around 7,040 infants born before 34 weeks of pregnancy and will compare those who have their stomach contents measured against those who do not. This research is important because it could lead to faster feedings and shorter hospital stays for many of the 20,000 preterm infants affected each year in the UK and Australia. Who this helps: This helps preterm infants and their families by potentially speeding up their recovery and reducing hospital time.

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This study looked at the genetics of certain stress hormones in the hair of 610 pigs exposed to different types of stress, particularly when facing diseases. Researchers found that the heritability of cortisol levels, a key stress hormone, was low (0.27), meaning genetics plays some role in hormone response but is not the only factor. Importantly, a specific genetic variant decreased cortisol levels by about 30% during disease stress, highlighting the potential to select pigs that handle stress better based on their hormone levels, which can be measured non-invasively in their hair. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and veterinarians looking to raise healthier pigs that can better withstand disease-related stress.

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This study looked at the effects of the progranulin gene on brain health in mice, especially under a diet high in fat and carbohydrates, which is similar to a typical Western diet. Researchers found that mice with a complete loss of the progranulin gene showed more immune activity in the brain when on this diet, while those with only one copy of the gene had issues in their immune system outside the brain and early signs of brain stress. This research is important because it helps us understand how diet can influence the severity of neurodegenerative diseases like frontotemporal dementia, especially for people with a family history of these conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients with a family history of frontotemporal dementia and their doctors by guiding dietary recommendations.

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This study looked at how well certain healthcare practices are put into use when someone, called a clinical champion, leads the effort. Researchers found that 73% of home-based care programs and 67% of community nursing homes were successful in implementing an advance care planning practice when champions were motivated, believed in the importance of the project, and actively engaged with their colleagues. It matters because having the right support and commitment can significantly improve how healthcare practices benefit seriously ill veterans. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially seriously ill veterans, by ensuring they receive better care planning support.

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This study examined how HIV affects brain connections related to emotions and rewards in people who do not have a history of substance use disorder. Researchers found that those with HIV had generally weaker brain connectivity compared to healthy individuals, specifically noting significant differences in areas important for both visual processing and emotional regulation. This is important because it highlights that HIV, even without the added complication of substance use, can impact brain function and emotional health. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV by increasing awareness of their cognitive health needs.

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The study looked at how different lifestyle choices, like diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management, affect people with epilepsy and their seizures. It found that making positive changes in these areas can help reduce seizure frequency and improve overall quality of life for individuals with epilepsy. Understanding these lifestyle factors is important because it offers additional ways to manage the condition beyond medication. Who this helps: Patients with epilepsy and their families.

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This study examined a new way to measure soil organic carbon (SOC) using a technique called Shifted-Excitation Raman Difference Spectroscopy (SERDS) along with machine learning, instead of traditional methods that are time-consuming and resource-intensive. The researchers analyzed 400 farm soil samples and discovered that conventional methods struggle with accuracy at higher levels of organic carbon due to issues like light absorption. They found that using a specific machine learning approach combined with a preprocessing method called Common-Mode Rejection gives the best results for soil analysis, leading to more reliable data for understanding soil health. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and land managers who need accurate soil assessments for better crop management.

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This study explored how DNA changes with age by using a new sequencing method to analyze saliva samples from 26 people aged 21 to 77. Researchers found many DNA locations on chromosome 21 that reliably change with age, improving the ability to estimate a person's age from DNA. This is important because it enhances forensic investigations by providing a more accurate way to determine age without damaging the DNA. Who this helps: Patients and forensic investigators.

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This study looked at whether early treatment with ibuprofen for a specific heart condition in extremely preterm babies (born before 28 weeks) would improve their health outcomes. In the trial involving 653 infants, the results showed that 69.2% of babies treated with ibuprofen experienced death or serious lung issues by 36 weeks, compared to 63.5% in the placebo group, meaning there was no significant improvement in health outcomes. Additionally, rates of survival without major developmental problems or respiratory issues were similar between the two groups at 24 months. Who this helps: This research is relevant for doctors treating extremely preterm infants with heart conditions.

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Military pilots and aircrew suffer high rates of neck, shoulder, and back injuries from the physical stresses of flying. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 studies found that non-drug rehabilitation therapies — such as exercise and physical therapy — produce modest but real improvements in strength and pain compared to standard care. These findings support embedding rehabilitation specialists within military units to keep flight crews operational.

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This study developed a new digital tool that helps create clinical guidelines by analyzing data from real patients, highlighting the differences between those who qualify for clinical trials and those who do not. The tool can assess information about 128 health conditions and 161 related issues, allowing for detailed analyses, such as population demographics and health complications. This is important because it makes it easier for guideline developers to use real-world evidence to create better treatment recommendations. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare policymakers in making informed clinical guidelines.

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This study looked at how heart failure (HF) is diagnosed, either during a hospital stay or during outpatient visits, and tracked outcomes for these patients over a year. Researchers found that more than half of the 4,231 patients with heart failure (51.3%) were diagnosed while in the hospital, and those diagnosed in the hospital had worse outcomes—28% experienced serious events compared to 9% for those diagnosed outside the hospital. Importantly, patients with reduced heart function who received two or more guideline-approved treatments after being diagnosed in the hospital had better outcomes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with heart failure by highlighting the need for improved early diagnosis and treatment strategies.

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This study examined how to better implement guidelines for managing aggression and preventing coercion in psychiatric hospitals. Over a year, 55 hospital wards participated in a tailored program to improve their practices, but challenges like staff turnover and heavy workloads hindered effort. Despite these difficulties, a positive team culture and support from leaders were key factors in successful implementation. Who this helps: This benefits patients in psychiatric care and the healthcare staff supporting them.

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This study looked at ways to improve the partnerships between researchers and community organizations in HIV research, which is crucial for addressing HIV-related needs. It found that 58% of researchers are working with new partners for two years or less, showing that many partnerships are still developing and not yet strong. Strengthening these relationships can lead to better, more effective approaches to fight against HIV in the U.S. Who this helps: This benefits patients and community organizations involved in HIV research efforts.

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This study focused on improving how medical data is converted into a standard format called the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) Common Data Model, which helps researchers collaborate internationally. They developed a new open-source tool called Carrot, which has successfully generated over 45,000 rules and converted more than 5 million patient records without the team needing direct access to sensitive data. This matters because it speeds up the research process, maintains patient privacy, and enables better collaboration among researchers. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare data analysts, and ultimately patients looking for improved healthcare insights.

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This study looked at how various symptoms change over time in people with Parkinson's disease who develop a condition known as freezing of gait (FOG). Out of 120 participants, 25 developed FOG over two years. It was found that those who developed FOG had worse memory and increased movement and balance issues, while also experiencing more depression compared to those who did not develop FOG. Understanding these changes is crucial because it can help identify who might be at risk for FOG and improve treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson's disease and their doctors.

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Researchers studied how the immune system responds to secondary syphilis by examining skin samples from affected individuals and conducting tests with healthy cells. They found a mix of immune cells in the skin lesions, with some immune responses being suppressed while others were heightened. This matters because understanding these immune interactions can help clarify how syphilis spreads and avoid immune detection, ultimately improving strategies for prevention and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by informing better treatment and prevention methods for syphilis.

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This study looked at central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in children with short bowel syndrome in the U.S. from 2015 to 2023. Researchers found that CLABSI rates dropped significantly during the last several years—with rates falling to about 60% of what they were in 2016-2017. However, children from lower income neighborhoods, those with public insurance, and non-Hispanic Black children still faced higher rates of infection, indicating ongoing disparities. Who this helps: This information benefits patients and healthcare providers by highlighting the need to address infection risks, especially in disadvantaged communities.

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This study looked at how quickly an invasive fly species, Zaprionus indianus, can evolve after moving to new temperate environments, like Florida, where it has been since 2005. The researchers found that these flies developed smaller wings soon after colonizing, showing significant changes across various traits. This is important because it suggests that rapid evolution can help invasive species adapt and thrive in new areas, potentially leading to further expansion. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying invasive species and their impacts on ecosystems.

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This study looked at the genetics of stress hormones in the hair of 863 healthy young pigs to see how these hormone levels relate to the pigs' stress responses. Researchers found that cortisol levels in hair were strongly connected to how vocal and physically active the pigs were during stress tests, with a major genetic factor explaining nearly half of the differences in cortisol levels. These findings help us understand how genetics influence stress responses in pigs, which can assist in breeding pigs that handle stress better. Who this helps: This helps farmers and animal breeders aiming for healthier, more resilient pigs.

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This study looked at a 53-year-old woman who came to the hospital with chest pain and shock caused by a dangerous buildup of fluid around her heart, known as cardiac tamponade. Tests revealed that the fluid was coming from a tumor called cardiac angiosarcoma, which was identified during emergency surgery. This case shows the importance of using different imaging techniques to accurately diagnose and treat rare but serious conditions when common causes are ruled out. Who this helps: This benefits patients with unexplained heart issues, particularly those who might have rare cardiac tumors.

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This study looked at how remote patient monitoring (RPM) could help children with intestinal failure reduce their need for parenteral nutrition (PN), which is feeding through an IV. Seventeen patients were followed, and while the results showed a greater decrease in PN after starting RPM—0.22 and 0.17 liters less per day compared to before—these changes weren't statistically significant. This matters because if RPM can effectively help reduce the amount of nutritional support needed, it could improve the overall health and quality of life for these patients. Who this helps: Children with intestinal failure and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how a treatment called spesolimab affects people with generalized pustular psoriasis, a condition that causes ongoing skin inflammation. Researchers found that spesolimab helps reduce this inflammation and stops flare-ups from happening. This is important because it can lead to better skin health and fewer painful outbreaks for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with generalized pustular psoriasis.

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This study looked at how consistently sunscreens provide sunburn protection by comparing new testing methods against established standards. It tested 32 different sunscreens across 12 laboratories and found that sunscreens with higher SPF values showed greater differences in results between labs, while the same lab produced more consistent results. This variability is significant because it suggests that the SPF ratings consumers see may not always reflect true performance, which can affect choices about sun protection. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on accurate sunscreen information for effective sun protection.

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This research focused on improving how laboratory data in Scotland is organized and used for health studies. The team created a new software tool that can standardize lab test results from different health regions, successfully aligning 182 test codes that represent 98.7% of tests done in Scotland. This makes it easier and faster for researchers to access and analyze consistent health data across the country, which is crucial for effective medical research. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare providers, and ultimately patients through improved health insights.

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This study looked at the impact of the World Health Organization's QualityRights e-training on mental health attitudes around the world. After the training, participants' attitudes improved significantly, with scores showing an average increase of nearly 10 points overall, and even more for those in low- and middle-income countries. This is important because changing negative attitudes can lead to better treatment and support for people with mental health conditions and disabilities. Who this helps: This benefits patients with mental health conditions and disabilities.

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This study examined a new method called Hybrid Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (HDRS) for measuring how effective sunscreens are at protecting skin from UV rays. The researchers found that HDRS can accurately estimate sunscreen protection levels, closely matching traditional testing methods. In follow-up tests, the accuracy improved significantly, with nearly all results falling within acceptable limits compared to standard methods. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for reliable sunscreen products and dermatologists assessing their effectiveness.

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This research tested different methods for measuring how well sunscreens protect against UV rays. They examined 32 sunscreen products, grouping them by their SPF levels and ingredients, and found specific performance standards for these testing methods. Understanding these methods is important because it ensures consumers get accurate information about sunscreen effectiveness, helping them choose safer products. Who this helps: This helps consumers and manufacturers of sunscreen products.

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This study looked at how nurses in the UK are not adequately represented in research and academic leadership, despite being the largest group in the healthcare system. The review found that while there are some programs to support nurses in clinical research, such as the HEE/NIHR Integrated Clinical Academic Programme, many barriers still prevent them from advancing to higher leadership roles. These barriers include poor visibility of nursing leaders, lack of career support, and cultural attitudes that undervalue nursing research. Who this helps: This research benefits nurses, healthcare organizations, and ultimately patients by promoting better representation and innovation in care.

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This study looked at the role of a protein called MYO10 in how cells move and grow. Researchers created special cell lines that had less MYO10 and found that these cells grew slower and had trouble moving, with only 5-10 filopodia (tiny projections that help cells move) in comparison to normal cells. Understanding MYO10's role helps in studying conditions like cancer, where cell movement is critical. Who this helps: Patients with cancer and their doctors.

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This study focused on setting up a urology program at a public hospital in El Petén, Guatemala, aiming to provide sustainable surgical care in an area with limited access to such services. Over one year, 37 urology procedures were performed, with only three complications and no patient deaths. This is important because it shows that specialized medical care can be delivered effectively in low-resource settings, which could improve healthcare access for many people. Who this helps: This benefits patients in northern Guatemala who need urological care.

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This study looked at how a traumatic brain injury affects the function of the anterior pituitary gland in patients right after the injury. The researchers found that many patients had low levels of important hormones like adrenocorticotropic hormone (81% on Day 0), growth hormone (76% on Day 0), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (42% on Day 0), and these low levels were linked to the severity of the brain injury. However, the hormone levels didn't seem to influence the chances of survival or recovery after six months, which means more research is needed to fully understand their importance. Who this helps: This research is valuable for doctors treating patients with traumatic brain injuries.

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This study looked at the difficulties healthcare students in Australia face while trying to complete mandatory practical placements. It found that financial and logistical challenges affect students at different levels, with issues so severe that they can lead to students dropping out of their programs. These findings highlight the need for significant changes in how placements are structured, so more students can successfully enter the healthcare workforce. Who this helps: This helps healthcare students and educational institutions.

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This study looked at how nurses in a major hospital in Melbourne practice patient-centred care (PCC). Five nurses were interviewed, revealing that while PCC is recognized as important, in practice, it often takes a backseat to more medical-focused approaches. The study found that factors like hospital policies and efficiency goals can limit how well nurses truly involve patients in their own care. Who this helps: This helps patients by highlighting the need for better care practices that consider their experiences and needs.

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This study looked at how technology can help older adults manage multiple medications, a situation known as polypharmacy, which can lead to harmful side effects and hospital visits. Researchers reviewed 30 previous studies and found that successful adoption of digital tools, like medication management systems, happens when they are designed with the users in mind and are integrated into existing healthcare workflows. They discovered that clear communication and collaboration among medical teams also help these interventions succeed. Who this helps: This benefits older patients who are on multiple medications, their doctors, and healthcare systems.

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This research looked at how certain drugs called histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors affect recovery and behavior after spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in animal models. Out of 42 studies reviewed, 73% showed that these drugs improved movement abilities, and one study found benefits for pain and anxiety. These findings are important because they suggest that HDAC inhibitors could lead to better treatments for people with spinal cord injuries. Who this helps: Patients with spinal cord injuries.

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This study looked at a new type of catalyst made from a compound containing ruthenium to speed up a process called ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP), which helps create certain types of plastics. The researchers found that this catalyst was extremely efficient, achieving turnover frequencies (TOFs) of up to 4.00 for a specific monomer and turnover numbers (TONs) as high as 232,000, which are among the best rates ever reported for this process. This matters because it can lead to faster and more efficient production of important materials used in various industries. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers and industries that rely on fast production of polymers.

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This study looked at how a new support program helps early-career research nurses grow in their roles. From May 2023 to December 2024, six nurses completed training, improved their skills, and reported feeling more confident and motivated. Notably, 83% of the nurses stayed in their positions after a year, and two even took leadership roles in clinical trials. This program is important because it provides a clear way for research nurses to advance their careers, which helps keep skilled workers in essential healthcare roles. Who this helps: This benefits early-career research nurses and the healthcare system by ensuring better support and retention.

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This study looked at how to improve student engagement in an online nursing program in Virginia. Researchers introduced a new teaching method called Grand Rounds, where students led discussions about real patient cases and practiced their diagnostic and management skills. They found that this approach made students feel more involved and improved their skills, with many students reporting higher engagement levels and better evaluations from their instructors. Who this helps: This benefits nursing students and educators by enhancing their learning experience and clinical skills.

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The SurfON trial studied whether giving a treatment called surfactant early to late preterm and early term infants with breathing difficulties leads to better health outcomes compared to simply monitoring them without immediate treatment. The researchers plan to include 1,522 infants, looking at how long they stay in the hospital and how often they experience severe breathing issues. This is important because many of these infants end up needing specialized care, and improved treatment could help reduce hospital stays and support both the babies and their families. Who this helps: This helps infants with respiratory distress and their families.

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This study focused on improving the confidence of final-year medical students in treating patients with learning disabilities (LD) and autism. After participating in lectures and hands-on simulations with actors who have these conditions, 32 students reported significantly increased confidence, and all participants agreed that this type of training should be required. This matters because better trained doctors can provide higher quality care to underserved groups, leading to improved health outcomes for these patients. Who this helps: Patients with learning disabilities and autism.

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This study looked at the immune system's response in patients with generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP), a severe form of psoriasis that can cause dangerous skin flare-ups. Researchers analyzed 60,000 individual skin cells from GPP patients and found that a special group of neutrophils (a type of immune cell) are very active during flare-ups, showing higher levels of inflammation-related genes. Understanding how these immune cells communicate and behave in GPP may help develop better treatments for this serious condition. Who this helps: Patients with generalized pustular psoriasis.

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This study looked at a 59-year-old man with heart failure who experienced problems during exercise after getting a biventricular pacemaker. The researchers found that instead of his heart failure getting worse, his pacemaker was not set up correctly, causing it to mismanage his heart rate when he exercised. By simply reprogramming the device, the man's symptoms improved, showing that it's crucial to adjust pacemaker settings to fit each person’s unique needs. Who this helps: This helps patients with pacemakers and their doctors to ensure better management of their heart conditions during exercise.

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This study, called the DOLFIN trial, looked at how nutritional supplements might improve brain development in two groups of vulnerable infants: those born very prematurely (before 28 weeks) and those born at full term but suffering from brain injury due to lack of oxygen. The trial involved 1,010 infants who were randomly assigned to receive either a special supplement containing important nutrients or a placebo, and the effects on their cognitive abilities were assessed at 24 months old. The results will guide healthcare practices for feeding and supporting these high-risk infants, helping to prevent long-term developmental issues. Who this helps: This benefits infants born preterm or with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, as well as their families and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a rare case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in a 15-year-old girl who had ulcers on her face that resembled another skin condition. The girl was diagnosed with GPA after thorough tests and responded very well to a treatment combining two medications, rituximab and corticosteroids. This is important because recognizing GPA early can prevent serious health problems, even though it is very rare in children. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly children with unusual skin ulcers.

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This study looked at how autoantibodies in bullous pemphigoid (BP), a skin condition that causes blisters, affect skin cells called keratinocytes. Researchers found that these autoantibodies trigger a specific immune response in keratinocytes, leading to the release of inflammatory substances that could worsen the disease. In experiments with mice, blocking a key part of this response reduced disease severity and inflammation. Who this helps: This helps patients with bullous pemphigoid and their doctors by providing insights into potential treatments.

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The Health Informatics Centre (HIC) in Scotland safely manages and provides access to health data for researchers. It holds over 170 datasets that cover more than 2.1 million people and spans over 20 years of information. This secure environment allows researchers to conduct important studies while ensuring patient privacy and data integrity, making it possible to support 175 active research projects at the time of publication. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare professionals, and ultimately patients by advancing medical knowledge and improving health outcomes.