DR. DALE LEMOIN DUNCAN, MD

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This study focused on predicting late seizures that can occur after a serious brain injury. Researchers used a special analysis of brain wave patterns (EEG) from the first day after the injury and created a machine learning system that accurately identified patients likely to experience these seizures with 95% accuracy. This is important because it provides doctors with a reliable way to identify at-risk patients early, allowing for better management and treatment plans. Who this helps: This helps patients with traumatic brain injuries and their doctors.

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This study focused on creating a new digital health system called InterFACE to improve how medical teams perform pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Researchers found that the system showed high usability, with the Guiding Pad achieving a 78%-100% task completion rate and the TeamScreen having an 81% success rate in supporting team coordination during simulations. This matters because it can lead to better adherence to life-saving guidelines, reduce mental stress on medical staff, and ultimately improve outcomes for children in emergencies. Who this helps: This helps medical teams working in pediatric emergencies, particularly doctors and nurses.

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This study looked at the risk of recurring bovine tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks in cattle herds in England, focusing on their recent TB history. It found that herds with a recent "officially tuberculosis free-withdrawn" (OTF-W) status had 30% higher odds of experiencing another outbreak within 18 months, compared to those with no recent TB issues. This is important because it helps farmers and veterinarians target testing resources more effectively to prevent future outbreaks, especially in larger herds. Who this helps: This benefits cattle farmers and veterinarians managing herd health.

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This study examined how well a special cream made from stem cell-derived exosomes can help reduce skin damage from radiation therapy in breast cancer patients. Among the 15 patients who used the cream, only 6.7% experienced no skin damage, while 40% and 53.3% had mild to moderate damage at its worst, with most seeing improvement by 8 weeks after starting treatment. This matters because it shows that the cream can significantly lower the severity of radiation-induced skin problems compared to what is usually seen, making recovery more comfortable for patients. Who this helps: This benefits breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.

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This study focused on the experiences of two nursing students who attended an event called Nurse Day at the Capitol, which aimed to help future nurses understand health policy and advocacy better. The students shared their experiences through interviews and reflections, revealing that after participating, they felt more confident and engaged in their roles as advocates in healthcare. Overall, the study found that such hands-on experiences are crucial for developing leadership skills and understanding in nursing students. Who this helps: This benefits nursing students by preparing them to be effective leaders in healthcare policy.

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This study looked at the genetic differences among coyotes in Pennsylvania over ten years, analyzing 1,199 animals. The researchers found two main groups of coyotes with slight genetic differences, which seem to be influenced by human activity and where people live. Even though coyotes can move around easily, these findings show that human factors can still create distinct populations. Who this helps: This helps wildlife managers and conservationists understand coyote populations better.

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This study focused on improving understanding and treatment of post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) that can occur after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Researchers and experts gathered at a conference to identify challenges and propose solutions for advancing research, including the importance of finding early indicators of PTE risk and developing effective therapies. The recommendations made aim to streamline efforts in conducting clinical trials, ultimately helping to prevent or better manage this condition in patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients who suffer from traumatic brain injuries and may develop epilepsy.

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This study looked at a rare and serious problem that can happen after a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve implantation, where a new heart valve is placed. An 82-year-old woman experienced chest pain three months after the procedure, and tests revealed a blockage in her coronary artery caused by a condition known as sinus sequestration. This situation was successfully treated with surgery, highlighting that such complications can happen even with native heart valves, emphasizing the need for careful testing after the procedure to catch any issues early. Who this helps: This information is important for patients undergoing heart valve replacement and the doctors who treat them.

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This study focused on improving a special medical program that helps critically ill children by teaching doctors how to use a life support system called extracorporeal life support (ECLS). The researchers found that using realistic training simulations allowed their team to practice important skills effectively, enabling them to maintain patient care outcomes similar to hospitals that treat many more cases. This is significant because it shows that even smaller hospitals can provide high-quality care in emergencies. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients and healthcare teams in smaller hospitals.

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This study looked at different biological indicators, called biomarkers, that could help identify people who might develop post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) after a moderate to severe brain injury. Out of over 7,500 records, 18 studies were included, revealing that 2% to 53% of people with such injuries develop PTE. The findings highlight the importance of finding reliable biomarkers since they could help in preventing this condition and improving treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries and their doctors.

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This study looked at how a mobile phone app could improve cervical cancer screening in Kenya by helping women receive timely results and follow-up care. The researchers estimated that using the app could lead to treating an additional 247 women, including 229 with precancerous conditions and 18 with cervical cancer, for an extra cost of $12.53 per woman screened. Even though the app increases short-term costs, it could save money overall since treating a cervical cancer case usually costs between $1,000 and $3,000. Who this helps: This benefits women at risk for cervical cancer and healthcare providers involved in their care.

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This research created a comprehensive database called B(RAIN) that collects detailed images and brain activity recordings from patients who have received deep brain stimulation (DBS). It includes data like brain scans and electrical signals from the brain's surface and deeper areas, making it easier for researchers to share and analyze information. By organizing this data systematically, the study aims to improve understanding and treatment of neurological conditions, which could ultimately enhance patient care. Who this helps: Patients with neurological disorders.

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This study examined a new, low-cost way to protect patients' eyes during spinal surgery when they are lying face down, which is known to carry a risk of vision loss. The researchers used a simple mirror and regular eye padding to check the eye position throughout the surgery without interrupting the procedure. Their method offers an affordable solution that lowers the risk of postoperative visual loss while improving teamwork between surgeons and anesthetists. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing spinal surgery and the medical teams that care for them.

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This research paper focuses on the serious condition of anaphylaxis that can occur during surgery, which can quickly affect breathing and blood circulation. It emphasizes that doctors need to recognize specific signs like low blood pressure and rapid heart rate to diagnose this condition, even in the absence of skin reactions, and that immediate treatment with epinephrine and fluids is crucial. This is important because timely action can save a patient's life during surgery, as anaphylaxis can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing surgery and their doctors.

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This study looked at how two different starting doses of adenosine (6 mg and 12 mg) affect patients with a fast heartbeat known as paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) who are treated by emergency medical services (EMS). It found that using 12 mg led to a 65% higher chance of patients improving prehospital compared to the 6 mg dose, and those receiving the higher dose were also 28% less likely to be admitted to the hospital. Importantly, serious complications were rare, showing that both doses were generally safe. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing PSVT by improving their chances of recovery and reducing hospital stays.

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This study focuses on a 29-year-old soldier from the Special Operations Forces who was diagnosed with severe rheumatic heart disease (RHD) after experiencing fainting spells and difficulty with physical exertion. Tests showed significant damage to his heart valve, leading to a successful surgery to replace the valve, and he will need to take blood-thinning medication for life. This case is important because it highlights the need for military medical staff to be aware of RHD's resurgence, especially in young servicemembers who show signs of heart issues. Who this helps: This helps military doctors and personnel by providing insights into recognizing and treating rare heart conditions in soldiers.

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In 2023, researchers found that there were 3,078 new cases of bovine tuberculosis (TB) in cattle herds across Great Britain, marking a 13.6% drop from the previous year. The incidence rate decreased to 6.5 new cases per 100 herds at risk, down from 7.2 in 2022. This is important because it indicates that TB control measures are having a positive effect in reducing the overall spread of the disease, although Wales experienced a small increase in new cases. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and veterinarians working to maintain cattle health and reduce disease spread.

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This research looked at how to ensure that the seals on vials used for injectable medications, like vaccines, remain intact, especially when stored at very low temperatures. The study found that using a thorough approach, which includes understanding the risks, designing better packaging, and controlling the sealing process, is essential to maintain the integrity of these containers. This matters because it helps prevent contamination and ensures that vaccines and other injectable products remain safe and effective. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving injectable medications and vaccines.

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This research looks at bronchiectasis, a chronic lung disease, among adult Aboriginal Australians and finds that it is much more common in this group compared to other populations. The study shows that rural and remote Aboriginal adults experience higher rates of the disease, often with severe symptoms and a greater likelihood of hospitalization and death. Specifically, patients showed higher levels of lung damage, other health issues, and bacterial infections in their lungs. This is important because it reveals a critical health disparity that needs more attention to improve outcomes for these communities. Who this helps: This helps Aboriginal patients and healthcare providers working to improve respiratory health in their communities.

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This study looked at how hospitals manage problems related to blood clots (HAT) and narrowing of blood vessels (HAS) in children after they receive a liver transplant. Researchers surveyed 36 liver transplant centers around the world and found that most (89%) followed specific anticoagulation guidelines, and 61% preferred immediate re-transplantation for patients with early HAT who also had acute liver failure. This information is crucial because it highlights the differences in treatment approaches and helps lay the groundwork for developing standardized care guidelines for these complications. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients undergoing liver transplantation and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a dangerous germ called Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in New Zealand from 2016 to 2022. They found that there were about 19.9 cases per 100,000 people in 2022, with severe illness occurring in 25% of cases and 23% of patients being hospitalized. Young children under 5 years old were particularly affected, experiencing a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome at a rate of 2.86 cases per 100,000. Understanding the different types of STEC and their serious effects is important for improving healthcare responses and preventing future outbreaks. Who this helps: This information benefits patients, particularly children and vulnerable groups, and public health officials.

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This study explored how traumatic brain injuries (TBI) affect the brain's white matter in rats, which can help us understand the long-term effects of such injuries. Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to look at 36 areas in the brain over time, finding that specific changes occurred months after the injury, with a high accuracy of 92% in distinguishing injured from non-injured rats. This is important because it could lead to better ways to predict and manage complications like post-traumatic epilepsy in humans. Who this helps: This helps patients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and their doctors by providing better diagnostic tools.

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This research focused on developing a new type of antibody that activates a receptor called TREM2, which is important for brain health and linked to Alzheimer's disease. The scientists created a special antibody that is more effective at triggering this receptor than other versions, showing better results in laboratory tests and living organisms. Their work could lead to improved treatments to protect brain function in Alzheimer’s patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

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Researchers are looking at epilepsy by using animal models to gain insights into the disease and find new treatments. They have found that artificial intelligence (AI) is a valuable tool in this research, helping to collect and analyze data. AI is especially useful for diagnosing seizures, recognizing related health issues, and testing new drugs, which can lead to more effective treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients with epilepsy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at ways to encourage people in rural communities to be more physically active, as these areas typically see higher rates of chronic diseases due to lower activity levels. Researchers tried different methods between 2019 and 2022 in 14 rural communities, which included sending text messages, forming walking groups, and using community marketing. They found that those who participated in the intervention were more likely to meet the recommended physical activity guidelines, showing that these strategies can effectively promote physical activity, even despite challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. Who this helps: This benefits patients in rural areas looking to improve their health through increased physical activity.

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This study looked at how a signaling pathway called non-canonical Wnt affects cell structure and organization during the development of embryos. The researchers found that a specific protein called Profilin, particularly types 1 and 2, helps manage the structures inside cells by working alongside Wnt signaling. Understanding how Profilin interacts with other proteins is important because it may help explain how embryos form correctly and how these processes can go awry in diseases. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors studying developmental disorders and related diseases.

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This study examined complications related to the portal vein in children who received liver transplants, finding that 6.3% of these patients experienced such issues. The highest risk was for infants under 1 year old with a condition called biliary atresia, where the complication rate reached 13.0%. Understanding these risks helps improve care and outcomes for young liver transplant patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families, as well as doctors involved in pediatric liver transplants.

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This study looked at a fungus called Candida albicans, which can cause serious infections when it spreads from the gut into the bloodstream. Researchers found that a specific gene, Erg251, is crucial for the fungus to grow in low-oxygen environments, and without it, the fungus can't effectively cause infections or live in the intestines of mice. They also found that drugs targeting Erg251 can stop the growth of this fungus, suggesting a new treatment approach. Who this helps: This research can benefit patients at risk of fungal infections and doctors treating those infections.

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This study looked at how doctors can switch from using a specialized heart-lung machine (VA-ECMO) to a different method (CPB) during pediatric heart surgery while maintaining the same equipment. Researchers found that seven children underwent this switch successfully, with an average blood concentration level of 31.1% and a total blood product usage of 238 mL during the procedure. This approach is important because it helps streamline surgeries for children with heart conditions, making the process safer and easier. Who this helps: This helps pediatric heart surgery patients and their doctors.

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This study examined how spirituality and religion can be better included in nursing and midwifery education to promote diversity and inclusion. Researchers surveyed 114 students and faculty and conducted focus groups with 11 participants, finding that most viewed spirituality positively as a personal experience, while community-connected views on religion varied, sometimes leading to exclusion. The findings suggest that teaching about spirituality and religion can help healthcare professionals be more open and sensitive to the diverse beliefs of their patients. Who this helps: This benefits nursing and midwifery students and healthcare educators.

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This research paper looks at a condition called cardiorenal syndrome (CRS), which occurs when problems in the heart affect the kidneys and vice versa. The study found that increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system—part of the body's response system—can worsen inflammation and raise the risk of serious heart issues like strokes and heart attacks. Understanding these connections is important because it opens up potential treatments, such as a therapy called renal denervation, that could help break this harmful cycle and improve patients' quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart and kidney issues.

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This study looked at two methods for assessing blood flow in the brain of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) to see if a simpler, non-invasive method (resting-state cerebrovascular reactivity or RS-CVR) is just as effective as the traditional method that requires inhaling carbon dioxide (CO-CVR). They found that both methods showed similar results, with RS-CVR identifying blood flow issues even in areas of the brain that looked normal but still had functional impairments, and both methods correlated with the patients' recovery outcomes. This is important because it offers a simple way to evaluate brain health and helps guide treatment for people recovering from TBI. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from traumatic brain injuries and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how hospitals manage a problem called portal vein obstruction (PVO) that can happen after children receive a liver transplant. Researchers surveyed 25 specialized centers worldwide and found that while all use Doppler ultrasound to screen for PVO, there are inconsistencies in how they diagnose and treat it; for example, 79% use a specific imaging technique for diagnosis, but there’s no standard approach to follow-up care. This matters because having different practices can lead to varied patient outcomes, highlighting the urgent need for a unified treatment strategy. Who this helps: This helps pediatric liver transplant patients and their healthcare providers.

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This research studied how to improve the evaluation of COVID-19 severity using 3D CT scans, focusing on a dataset with 1,130 images of patients showing five levels of severity. The new method, called CoSev, increased the accuracy of assessments from below 60% to 81.57%, making it as effective as the best existing techniques but easier to set up. This is important because better assessment can lead to more appropriate treatment for patients with COVID-19. Who this helps: Patients suffering from COVID-19.

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This study looked at how combining two treatments—radiofrequency (RF) and targeted ultrasound (TUS)—can boost the production of hyaluronic acid (HA) in the skin, which is important for keeping skin hydrated and plump. In tests with animals, those treated with RF and TUS showed a 98% increase in HA production enzymes and a 224% increase in actual HA two months later, while untreated areas saw no improvement. This matters because it shows a promising method for improving skin health and appearance, especially as natural HA levels decline with age. Who this helps: This helps patients seeking non-surgical options for facial rejuvenation.

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Researchers studied a large collection of over 3,000 chemical compounds to find new treatments for serious fungal infections that are becoming harder to treat due to drug resistance. They discovered 17 effective compounds, including three particularly strong ones that can reduce fungal growth by more than 80%. These compounds work by binding to iron, which is essential for the fungi, preventing them from growing. Who this helps: This research benefits patients suffering from fungal infections, especially those with resistant types.

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This study explored a new approach to cancer treatment using reversible covalent inhibitors, which can temporarily bind to specific proteins in cancer cells without causing long-term effects on other proteins. Researchers found that by allowing these inhibitors to form reversible bonds, they can reduce unwanted side effects that usually happen with traditional drugs that bind permanently. This is important because it means targeted cancer therapies can be more effective and safer for patients. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by potentially providing them with more effective and safer treatment options.

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This study looked at different methods used in New Zealand laboratories to identify a type of harmful bacteria called Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) found in stool samples. Researchers tested six culture media and found that using a specific combination, CHROMagar™ STEC along with blood agar and certain antibiotics (known as BVCC), confirmed 42 different types of STEC, compared to just 18 types with the CHROMagar™ STEC alone. This is important because it means that using the right combination can lead to better detection of these bacteria, helping to manage public health risks effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving the diagnosis and treatment of infections caused by STEC.

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This study examined how effective a specific MRI technique, called TI 600, is at telling the difference between a type of blood clot in the heart (thrombus) and a benign tumor (myxoma). The researchers found that this method often misidentified the larger mass as a thrombus when it was actually a myxoma, which can lead to incorrect diagnoses. Understanding these differences is crucial because misdiagnosis can impact treatment decisions and patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with heart masses and their doctors.

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This study focused on understanding and predicting late post-traumatic seizures (LPTS) in brain injury patients, which can lead to a lifelong condition called post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE). Researchers looked at data from 48 patients, developing methods to handle missing information and comparing patients with and without LPTS. They found that their new approach, using two algorithms, performed well in distinguishing between these groups, ultimately identifying two areas in the brain—specific regions in MRI scans—that could serve as important markers for identifying patients at risk of developing PTE. Who this helps: This helps patients with traumatic brain injuries and their doctors by improving predictions for potential epilepsy development.

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This study looked at how a digital game could improve nursing students' understanding of COVID-19. Out of 282 students, 210 took tests before and after playing the game, and their scores went from an average of 82.6% correct answers before the game to 92.7% afterward, showing a significant knowledge boost. This matters because better-informed nurses can provide safer care during health crises. Who this helps: Nursing students and future healthcare providers.

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This research focused on a workshop designed to support mental health in STEM fields by teaching participants about self-compassion and creating a supportive community. After attending the workshop, participants reported an increase in self-compassion and felt more comfortable discussing mental health issues, with observations showing positive changes in their attitudes. This is important because mental health is often overlooked in STEM careers, and fostering a culture of support can improve overall well-being among professionals. Who this helps: This helps STEM students and professionals dealing with mental health challenges.

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The study looked at improving rechargeable zinc batteries by using a cheaper, environmentally friendly liquid called dual-cation electrolyte that doesn't contain harmful fluorine. Researchers found that this new electrolyte allowed the batteries to work well at high temperatures, achieving good performance over 100 charge-discharge cycles, which is a significant improvement. This matters because it can lead to more sustainable and cost-effective energy storage options in the future. Who this helps: This benefits consumers and manufacturers looking for affordable, eco-friendly battery solutions.

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This paper examines how data is shared among different archives within the BRAIN Initiative, a project focused on brain research. The authors interviewed 34 people involved in this effort and found that, while there are challenges in making sure data from multiple sources can work together and in managing informed consent from research participants, the variety of data archives allows for better support of specific research needs. This is important because it helps neuroscientists access more data to enhance their research over time. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working in neuroscience.

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This study looked at changes in the hippocampus, a brain region important for memory, in patients who suffered from moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) compared to healthy individuals. The researchers found that TBI patients had smaller hippocampal volumes on average, and in older patients (aged 60 and above), those with post-traumatic epilepsy had larger volumes in a specific part of the hippocampus. This matters because understanding these changes can help explain why some TBI patients develop epilepsy and may lead to better treatment approaches in the future. Who this helps: This research benefits patients recovering from traumatic brain injuries and their doctors.

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This study explored how to adapt a proven method for improving medical practices—called the Calgary Audit and Feedback Framework (CAFF)—to an online format. The researchers found that when 83 doctors participated in virtual group sessions, over 90% reported that the experience helped improve their medical practices, and nearly half committed to making specific changes. This is important because it shows that online tools can effectively encourage doctors to enhance their laboratory testing practices, which can lead to better patient care and reduced unnecessary tests. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and ultimately their patients by improving medical decision-making and reducing unnecessary testing.

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Researchers studied patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) to understand why some develop post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) and others do not. They found that those who experienced seizures had larger perivascular spaces (PVS) in specific areas of the brain, compared to those who did not have seizures. This is important because it could help identify individuals at risk for seizures after a brain injury, possibly guiding future treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with traumatic brain injuries and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at complications related to the liver arteries in children who received liver transplants over the past 20 years. It aims to find out how often these complications happen, how they are treated, and how successful those treatments are. Understanding this is important because these issues can lead to serious health problems or death, and the findings will help improve care for children undergoing liver transplants.

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This study looked at how brain activity and the thickness of a specific part of the brain, the motor cortex, relate to Parkinson's Disease (PD). Researchers analyzed data from 34 patients and found that higher levels of high-beta brain activity (20-35 Hz) were connected to thinner cortical areas; for the high-beta group, the correlation was significant with a strength of -0.48 (and -0.52 when age was accounted for). This is important because it helps understand how brain changes in PD might affect movement and could lead to better ways to monitor or treat the disease. Who this helps: Patients with Parkinson's Disease and their doctors.