DR. CRAIG R. THOMPSON, MD

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This study looked into how healthcare workers in Australia’s intensive care units (ICUs) provide care to Indigenous patients and their families. Researchers interviewed 20 ICU clinicians and identified three key themes: the importance of understanding cultural differences, the need to build trust and improve communication, and the desire for better education on Indigenous health issues. The findings highlight the necessity for healthcare systems to support culturally sensitive care through dedicated funding and inclusion of Indigenous staff so that Indigenous patients and their families receive better health outcomes. Who this helps: Indigenous patients and their families.

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This study focused on how to safely evaluate the total radiation dose received by patients who are being treated multiple times with radiation therapy. The researchers created a set of clear recommendations for doctors, emphasizing methods for accurately measuring cumulative doses, despite challenges like incomplete data. They reached agreement on 35 important points, which will help standardize practices and improve the safety of reirradiation treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving multiple radiation treatments and their doctors by providing clearer guidelines for safer care.

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This research paper looked at the challenges faced by autistic young people and those with ADHD when they transition from child mental health services to adult mental health services. The study reviewed 1,677 papers but only included 10 that highlighted key issues like poor communication between the two services and a lack of involvement of the young people in their care decisions. Understanding these barriers and enablers matters because improving this transition can lead to better mental health outcomes for these individuals. Who this helps: This helps autistic young people and those with ADHD.

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This study looked at how two proteins, gM and gN, work together in the process by which the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) forms its infectious particles. Researchers found that when these proteins were disrupted, more than 90% of the virus capsids had issues properly budding into membranes, which caused them to get stuck and not develop correctly. Understanding this process is important because HCMV can cause serious diseases, especially in newborns and those with weakened immune systems. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, particularly newborns and immunocompromised individuals at risk of severe HCMV infections.

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This study focused on how a program that offers mental health support after difficult births can help mothers cope with trauma. Researchers found that 84% of mothers felt it was helpful to talk about their experiences with a nurse, indicating that good communication during and after the birth is essential to their recovery and understanding of what happened. This matters because addressing the emotional impact of traumatic births can improve mental health outcomes for mothers and their families. Who this helps: Mothers who experience traumatic births and their families.

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This study looked at the P2X7 receptor's role in intestinal fibrosis, which is a scarring condition that can occur in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers found that patients with Crohn's disease had higher levels of P2X7 receptors in their colon tissue, and in mice without the receptor, there was less inflammation and fibrosis. Specifically, the receptor's activation led to increased migration and collagen production in cells, and this connection shows how gut bacteria changes and P2X7 signaling contribute to disease progression. Who this helps: This benefits patients with inflammatory bowel disease and their healthcare providers by providing insights that could lead to better treatments.

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This study looked at a new way to deliver radiation therapy to patients with recurring pelvic cancers. Researchers treated 30 patients and found that 25 of them received higher doses of radiation than the usual maximum of 30 Gy, with a median dose of 42 Gy, showing that it is possible to give more effective radiotherapy while still protecting important organs. This is important because it can lead to better outcomes for patients battling these challenging cancers. Who this helps: Patients with recurrent pelvic cancers.

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Researchers studied how effective neonatal and labor and delivery nurses are at performing ventilation steps during neonatal resuscitation simulations. They found that NICU nurses performed better than L&D nurses on initial tests but both groups improved significantly after a specific training course, with their performance increasing from completing a median of 2 steps to 4 steps following the training. This matters because it highlights the importance of targeted training to ensure nurses are prepared to provide effective ventilation in critical situations. Who this helps: This helps nurses in neonatal and labor and delivery settings, improving care for newborns.

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This study looked at how using sound recordings can help understand how California spotted owls respond to severe wildfires, known as "megafires." Researchers collected about 2 million hours of audio over three years and found that these owls were less likely to settle in areas that had experienced major fires, with a decline in their presence noted especially in sites burned significantly (50% or more) and an overall 2% drop in the owl population in the region. This information is crucial for wildlife managers as it helps them devise strategies to protect at-risk species and adapt to environmental changes. Who this helps: This benefits wildlife managers and conservationists working to protect endangered species.

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This study looked at how general practice nurses in Australia can help older people feel less lonely and more connected to their communities. Researchers interviewed 13 nurses and held two group discussions, discovering that while nurses can effectively help older patients build social connections, challenges like funding issues and environmental disruptions (like natural disasters) make this difficult. The findings highlight the need for better support and funding for these interventions, which can significantly improve the well-being of older individuals. Who this helps: This helps older adults struggling with loneliness and their caregivers.

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This study examined how many young patients who received heart transplants are using psychoactive medications for issues like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Among 1,792 patients observed a year after their transplant, 301 (about 17%) were on these medications, with higher usage linked to being older and sicker before the surgery. The findings are important because they highlight that while many young heart transplant recipients need mental health support, their use of these medications is related to worse long-term health outcomes, such as heart problems and transplant failure. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by emphasizing the need for better mental health resources and monitoring for young heart transplant recipients.

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The study looked at how using telemedicine can help people from minority and low-income backgrounds get better access to metabolic/bariatric surgery for obesity. It found that telemedicine more than doubled the number of patients who showed up for appointments and improved the chances of getting surgery by 3.5 times in these groups. This is important because it helps overcome barriers like distance and transportation, making it easier for underserved patients to receive the care they need. Who this helps: This helps patients from minority and underserved communities struggling with obesity.

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This study looked at how much physical activity older adults do while in the hospital, focusing on 49 patients with an average age of 83. The results showed that patients spent nearly 20 hours a day sitting or lying down and only walked about 657 steps daily, with no big differences across age, gender, or health conditions. Understanding these activity levels is important for improving patient care and developing programs that help older adults stay active during their hospital stays. Who this helps: This helps older patients and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a brain and gut signaling molecule called apEP/CCHa in the sea slug Aplysia to understand its role in feeding behavior. Researchers found that this molecule reduces food intake and switches the slug's eating behavior to a state where it stops eating. Specifically, they discovered that apEP/CCHa affects certain key neurons involved in feeding, showing that it plays an important role in how the slug feels full and makes decisions about eating. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying feeding behaviors and could inform future treatments for eating disorders.

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This study focused on a protein called Ninjurin-1 and its role in inflammation related to multiple sclerosis. Researchers found that Ninjurin-1 levels increase in certain immune cells when the disease progresses, contributing to inflammation and nerve damage. Importantly, blocking Ninjurin-1 improved outcomes in a model of multiple sclerosis, reducing symptoms and tissue damage. Who this helps: This benefits patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

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In this study, researchers focused on finding a better way to measure dopamine levels and brain activity in mice that are moving freely. They created a special coating for the electrodes used in the experiments which prevents issues like protein buildup that can interfere with the readings. As a result, they maintained stable measurements of dopamine and brain activity over four weeks, which is important for understanding brain function and related disorders. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying brain function and neurological disorders.

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This study looked at a baby who had both a specific genetic mutation (SNRPB) linked to a rare condition called cerebro-costo-mandibular syndrome (CCMS) and a duplication of a segment of chromosome 22 (22q11.2). The findings are significant because there are fewer than 100 known cases of CCMS, and this might be the first time a child has been reported with both issues together, which could help doctors better understand the complexities of these genetic conditions. Understanding these unique cases aids in more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments for affected individuals. Who this helps: This helps patients with rare genetic conditions and their families.

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This study looked at how patients in Ontario, Canada reported their health results after hip and knee surgeries performed in outpatient settings. It found that only 41% of patients filled out a survey before their surgery, and just 14% and 15% completed follow-up surveys at 3-5 months and 9-15 months post-surgery, respectively. Additionally, 53% of patients reported meaningful improvements in their health after surgery, especially those who had outpatient procedures or hip replacements, but rates were lower for patients with multiple health issues or those living in long-term care facilities. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of patient feedback following outpatient surgeries.

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This study focused on improving the planning of radiation treatment for patients who need to receive radiation therapy again (reirradiation) by developing a new method called robust organ-mapped dose (ROAD). Researchers found that ROAD produced more accurate estimates of radiation doses in organs at risk, effectively reducing errors in dose assessments in areas with significant anatomical changes, particularly in the pelvis. For example, the method showed better accuracy in high-deformation areas and did not increase overall dose levels. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing reirradiation therapy and the healthcare teams managing their treatment.

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This study looked at the costs and benefits of using a specific heart valve replacement procedure (eTAVR) compared to simply monitoring patients with severe aortic stenosis (aSAS) who don’t have symptoms. The researchers found that eTAVR could give patients about 0.21 more years of life and 0.24 more years of good quality life, while costing $8,812 less over a lifetime compared to just watching and waiting. This matters because it shows that eTAVR not only helps patients live healthier and longer but also saves money for healthcare systems. Who this helps: Patients with severe aortic stenosis and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how feasible it is to compare two types of radiation treatments for prostate cancer that comes back after initial treatment: high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR BT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Researchers aimed to include 60 patients but only had 42 eligible, with 23 randomly assigned to one of the treatments. The main finding was that many patients prefer specific treatments over participating in the study, which made it hard to reach recruitment goals, highlighting the importance of considering patient preferences in future research. Who this helps: This helps patients with recurring prostate cancer seeking effective treatment options.

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The study looked at cesarean delivery rates for first-time mothers who had a single baby in a head-down position at a hospital. Before implementing quality improvement efforts, the cesarean rate was 31%, which dropped to 27.7% afterwards. This decline was particularly noted among non-Hispanic White patients, whose rates decreased from 27.7% to 22.2%, while there was a trend toward reduced rates for non-Hispanic Black patients as well. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and healthcare providers by promoting safer childbirth practices.

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Researchers studied a new method for planning radiation treatments in patients with lung cancer who are receiving radiation again, either for a recurrence or a new tumor. They tested this method on six patients and found that it provided better target doses while staying within safe limits for surrounding organs in 5 of the 6 cases, compared to only 3 out of 6 with the traditional manual approach. This is important because it's likely to improve treatment effectiveness and safety for lung cancer patients undergoing reirradiation. Who this helps: Patients with lung cancer who need reirradiation treatment.

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This study looked at the different types of microorganisms living alongside rhodolith algae in the Great Amazon Reef, exploring how their communities vary in different areas affected by the Amazon River. Researchers found that while bacteria dominated these communities, the specific types and functions changed across three regions: the South had more sunlight and supported processes related to carbon fixation, the Central region combined different energy sources, and the North had organisms that help process sulfur. This research is important because it shows how these microbial communities adapt to their environments, providing insights into how marine ecosystems might respond to climate change. Who this helps: This helps researchers, conservationists, and anyone interested in marine biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

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This study looked at how to improve the way nursing students evaluate their clinical sites and instructors. By integrating these evaluations into a digital system already in use, student response rates jumped by 25.1%, making the process easier for everyone involved and allowing for better feedback on clinical experiences. This matters because more feedback leads to better training for future nurses. Who this helps: This helps nursing students and educational institutions improve clinical training.

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This study looked at patients with aortic stenosis, a serious heart condition, to see how well they were being referred to heart specialists for treatment. Out of 343 patients studied, only 61% of those with severe aortic stenosis and 22% of those with moderate cases were referred, despite many showing dangerous symptoms; this led to a much higher death rate among those not referred (19.6% compared to 2.3% for those who were). This matters because it highlights a serious gap in care access, meaning that many patients who need treatment are not getting it. Who this helps: This helps patients with aortic stenosis by emphasizing the need for better referral practices.

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This study examined the relationship between gum disease (periodontitis) and kidney health in early chronic kidney disease (CKD), involving over 6,000 participants mostly around the age of 62. The researchers found that severe gum disease was linked to worse kidney function and higher levels of albumin in urine, with 36% of those with reduced kidney function experiencing severe periodontitis compared to just 14% of those with normal kidney function. These results indicate that gum disease can negatively impact kidney health, highlighting the importance of oral care for preventing kidney problems. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic kidney disease and healthcare providers aiming to improve their overall health outcomes.

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Researchers created an advanced AI model called MaxToki to study how our cells change as we age, using information from nearly 1 trillion gene data points. This model accurately predicted new targets that can influence how genes behave as we age, with successful tests confirming its predictions in real-life situations. This work is important because it can help identify new treatments to address age-related health issues. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors looking for new therapies for age-related conditions.

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This study looked at how adding more vegetarian meals to worksite cafeterias affects the number of people choosing these meals. Over seven weeks, making just one meat-free meal option available increased the selection of vegetarian meals by 41%. It also resulted in a reduction of calories by about 26 per meal and lowered greenhouse gas emissions, all without harming cafeteria revenue or increasing food waste. Who this helps: This benefits employees in workplace settings and contributes to wider public health and environmental goals.

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This study looked at how certain genes in patients with psoriatic arthritis responded to a treatment called secukinumab. Researchers found that two specific genes, IGHV3-64D and IGHV1-46, were active before treatment began and continued to show activity after three months in patients who responded well to the therapy. Additionally, five other genes were identified as potential indicators of response, suggesting that metabolic processes in the body may play a role in how well the treatment works. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with psoriatic arthritis, as it may lead to more personalized treatment approaches.

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This study looked at a very rare type of ovarian cancer called Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary (SCCO) by analyzing the complete genetic information of two patients. The findings highlighted that both patients showed specific genetic changes and one patient experienced a 34-month period without cancer after treatment, while the other sadly passed away a year after diagnosis. This research adds valuable information about SCCO, which can help improve understanding and treatment for this rare cancer type. Who this helps: This helps patients diagnosed with Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary and their doctors.

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This study looked at how children's early math skills, like counting and understanding numbers, differ based on their race, ethnicity, and family background. Researchers examined data from about 1,080 kids aged 2 to 6 across 45 locations in the U.S. and found significant differences in early math skills tied to these demographic factors. Understanding these disparities is important because early math abilities can influence future academic success, and the findings could help create better educational strategies that cater to the needs of all children. Who this helps: This helps educators and policymakers working with young children.

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This study looked at whether one or two veterinarian-administered ear treatments for ear infections in dogs are as effective as daily at-home cleaning and medication. The researchers found that both treatment methods worked well, with no big differences in success rates; both reduced itching, pain, and harmful bacteria and fungi, and had low relapse rates. This matters because it offers dog owners flexible options for treating ear infections, making veterinary care more accessible. Who this helps: This helps dog owners and veterinarians choose effective treatments for canine ear infections.

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This study looked at how patients with suspected cancer are treated in the emergency department (ED) and how doctors manage these cases. Over a year, 164 patients visited the ED with suspected cancer, mainly for gynecological (22%), head and neck (11.6%), breast (10.4%), and colorectal cancers (6.7%). Most patients (90.2%) showed symptoms of cancer, and many (46.3%) sought help to speed up their diagnosis, indicating the need for better follow-up care from the ED. Who this helps: This helps patients suspected of having cancer by improving their diagnosis and follow-up care in the emergency department.

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This study looked at how emergency doctors around the world use preemptive anticoagulation (blood thinners) for patients suspected of having a pulmonary embolism (a blockage in the lungs). Out of 413 doctors surveyed from 13 countries, 73.9% said they sometimes use these blood thinners, while 23.1% never do, and many were unaware of the guidelines recommending their use. This is important because it highlights a gap in knowledge and practice that may put patients at risk, suggesting that better training and protocols could help improve care. Who this helps: Patients suspected of having a pulmonary embolism.

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This study looked at the costs of hospital readmissions that could have been prevented if patients received better care right after leaving the hospital. Researchers found that out of 375 patients who were readmitted within 30 days, 78 were identified as having avoidable readmissions, which accounted for about $898,000 in costs. The average cost for these preventable readmissions was around $11,512, and certain factors, like having chronic health issues or being a smoker, led to higher costs. Who this helps: This information benefits patients at risk of readmission and healthcare providers looking to improve patient care and reduce costs.

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This study looked at how adding tests for herpesvirus to a specific diagnostic panel for meningitis and encephalitis in children affects patient care. Researchers found that including herpesvirus testing improved the diagnosis rate; for instance, it helped identify herpesvirus in 30% of patients who had previously unclear test results. This matters because diagnosing herpesvirus quickly allows for timely treatment, which can improve outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This benefits children with suspected meningitis or encephalitis and their doctors.

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This study looked at patients in Ontario who frequently use the emergency department (ED) and assessed whether their visits could have been avoided with better access to other healthcare services. Out of 181,369 respondents, only 1,460 (about 0.8%) were identified as frequent users with potentially avoidable visits, many of whom came from low-income areas and reported poorer physical and mental health. The findings highlight the need for healthcare improvements that address the specific needs of these vulnerable patients to reduce unnecessary ED visits. Who this helps: This helps patients who frequently visit the emergency room unnecessarily, especially those with lower incomes and health challenges.

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This study examined how eye movements, specifically fixational saccades (small eye movements when looking at a stationary target), differ between adolescents who have had a concussion and those who haven't. They found that concussion patients made larger fixational saccades when looking at a central target, and among all participants, females tended to make larger fixational saccades than males. These findings are significant because they show that both the task being performed and the sex of the individual can affect eye movement patterns, which is important to consider when using eye movements as a way to assess concussions. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers better understand concussion symptoms in different patients, especially considering sex differences.

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This study looked at how well nurses and doctors feel about their work environment and staffing at two major hospitals in Jamaica. Researchers found that only 35% of healthcare workers reported a positive culture for patient safety. Additionally, more nurses worked longer hours than doctors, and fewer than 70% of staff received annual performance reviews, which are needed for improving care. These issues highlight the need for better workforce training and support to ensure patients receive high-quality care. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare managers, policy makers, and ultimately patients who rely on safe and effective healthcare services.

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This study looked at different methods used to create computer models of how the cochlea (a part of the inner ear) works, particularly in relation to cochlear implants. Researchers reviewed 1,209 papers and found 77 studies that met their criteria, revealing two main modeling approaches. They noted significant differences in how researchers assumed the properties of cochlear materials, especially the stiffness of the basilar membrane, which can lead to less reliable results. Improving these models is important because it can help develop better treatments for hearing loss. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hearing loss and cochlear implants, as well as the doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at breakfast food choices among adults in South Africa to understand what influences their selections. Out of 1,000 surveyed people, the most common breakfast items included bread, ready-to-eat cereals, fruits, and yogurt, eaten weekly by 42-65% of them. The findings show that many consumers prioritize taste and cost, but they also value healthiness and nutrition, highlighting a potential for improving dietary habits in a country facing serious diet-related health issues. Who this helps: This benefits South African consumers and health advocates aiming to improve nutrition in the population.

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This study looked at how metal ions, specifically cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr), behave in the body after hip replacement surgery. Researchers found that within the first two years after the surgery, Co and Cr levels rose rapidly in blood and urine, with serum cobalt peaking at about 2.02 micrograms per liter. Understanding these patterns is important because it can help doctors monitor and manage potential metal exposure in patients after hip surgeries. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors manage the safety of hip replacement outcomes.

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Researchers studied how a training program using improvisation could improve medical students' communication skills during their clinical rotations. After a 5-week course, 91% of students reported feeling more comfortable in various communication situations, and a year later, those who took the course said it helped them handle challenging conversations and improved their confidence. These findings are important because good communication is vital for effective patient care and teamwork in healthcare settings. Who this helps: This helps medical students and ultimately improves patient care.

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This study looked at how physical activity affects sleep for adults recovering from substance use disorders (SUDs). Researchers will track 90 people at different recovery stages over 30 days, measuring their activity levels and sleep quality using wearable devices. The findings aim to provide personalized insights to improve treatment and help reduce relapse risks. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from substance use disorders.

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This study looked at the experiences and knowledge of cervical screening among young women in New Zealand who are part of the National Cervical Screening Programme. Researchers interviewed 24 women aged 18 to 30 and found that while many were empowered by the HPV self-testing option, cost was the main barrier preventing them from participating. Improving access and support through better healthcare resources is crucial to encourage these young women to take part in cervical screening and help reduce cervical cancer rates. Who this helps: This benefits young women and healthcare providers working to improve cervical health.

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This paper describes an international initiative called the eSource Scale-Up Task Force, launched in 2024, to accelerate the use of automated electronic health record data transfers in oncology clinical trials. The task force is developing practical tools — readiness criteria, performance metrics, and an implementation playbook — to help research sites and pharmaceutical companies adopt this technology. Wider adoption could reduce administrative burden, improve data quality, and speed up clinical trials across disease areas.