JAMES R. GOSS, D.O.

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This study examined a rare case of liver cancer in a 22-month-old child, who was diagnosed with a type of cancer called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The patient could not have surgery due to the advanced stage of the cancer but was treated with a technique called transarterial radioembolization (TARE) and later received a liver transplant. This case is important because it shows that even very young patients with advanced liver cancer might still be treated effectively, offering hope for similar cases. Who this helps: This helps young patients with liver cancer and their families.

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This study looked at two methods for predicting how much bleeding might occur during liver transplants in children: rotating thromboelastometry (ROTEM) and standard coagulation tests (SCA). The researchers found that while both methods could predict bleeding, the standard tests were slightly better, with a score of 0.862 compared to 0.760 for ROTEM. This matters because knowing which method is more accurate can help doctors prepare for and manage bleeding during surgery, ultimately improving patient safety. Who this helps: Parents and caregivers of children undergoing liver transplants.

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This study looked at two genetic disorders linked to epilepsy and developmental issues, aiming to better understand how these conditions progress over time. The researchers enrolled 164 people with one disorder and 159 with the other and found that their methods for tracking development and seizure histories were effective and useful. This is important because it prepares the groundwork for future clinical trials to test new treatments for these disorders. Who this helps: Patients and their families dealing with these specific genetic disorders.

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This study looked at a method called normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) to help with liver transplants in children, using liver donations from both living and deceased donors. Out of 14 livers tested, 12 were deemed suitable for transplant, and importantly, there were no patient deaths or significant complications during the first few months after surgery. This is important because it shows that NMP can safely improve the availability of liver transplants for children, addressing a critical shortage. Who this helps: Pediatric patients needing liver transplants.

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This study looked at how effective lung cancer screening programs are in diagnosing lung cancer among patients in the Mississippi Delta. They found that about 4% of patients in these programs were diagnosed with lung cancer over two to three years, which is slightly higher than the 3.97% seen in previous national trials. This is important because it shows that local screening efforts may be more effective in detecting lung cancer early, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for lung cancer, particularly in the Mississippi Delta region.

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This study looked at factors that affect how long children wait for a liver transplant and created a scoring system to help predict those wait times. Researchers analyzed data from over 5,200 pediatric liver transplant candidates and found that being at a high-volume transplant center significantly increases the chance of receiving a transplant within a year, while high sodium levels or serious liver damage decrease that chance. This research is important because it helps doctors identify which children may face longer wait times and offers ways to explore alternative options for those at higher risk. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children needing liver transplants, and their doctors.

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Researchers studied a 63-year-old man who developed a dangerous condition called hyperammonemia syndrome after receiving a liver transplant. On the 14th day after the surgery, he experienced a rapid increase in ammonia levels and severe brain symptoms, but his new liver was functioning well, suggesting another cause. They discovered an unusual infection and treated him with antibiotics, which successfully lowered his ammonia levels and improved his condition, highlighting the need to check for infections in similar cases after liver transplants to avoid serious complications.

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This study looked at the risk of early death in people with STXBP1-related disorders, which often cause severe developmental and epileptic issues. Researchers found that 3.2% of individuals with these disorders died, mostly from causes like sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) or respiratory infections, with many dying around the age of 13. Understanding these mortality risks is important for helping families make informed choices about care and prevention strategies. Who this helps: Families of patients with STXBP1-related disorders.

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This study looked at how different factors affect the survival of adults who receive a second liver transplant. Researchers analyzed data from 6,660 patients and discovered that certain factors like low physical health (a Karnofsky Score of 10%) and low albumin levels (<1.5) increased the risk of death within three months after the surgery. Conversely, having a strong physical health status (a Karnofsky Score of 90%) or a history of liver cancer (HCC) improved chances of survival. The new reSOFT score helps doctors predict a patient's risk level after a liver retransplant so they can provide better care. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare teams managing liver retransplant patients.

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This study looked at lung cancer screening and the impact of a specialized program that detects incidental pulmonary nodules (IPN), which can lead to early cancer diagnosis. Out of 1,904 patients, only 6.4% were screened for lung cancer, but 42% of those who were eligible but not screened were diagnosed through the IPN program. The results showed that screening significantly improved survival rates—77% for those screened compared to 45% for eligible patients who were not screened. Who this helps: This helps patients by improving access to early lung cancer detection and treatment.

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This study looked at liver samples from 66 people with urea cycle disorders (UCDs) to see how common liver scarring (fibrosis) and fat buildup (steatosis) are. They found that 23% of these individuals had significant liver fibrosis, with a shocking 80% prevalence in those with a specific condition called argininosuccinate lyase deficiency (ASLD). This is important because it highlights the need for regular liver check-ups for people with UCDs, particularly those with ASLD, to manage their liver health better. Who this helps: Patients with urea cycle disorders and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how changing the rules around who can get lung cancer screening could help more people, especially women and Black individuals, who might be at risk but currently don’t qualify. The researchers found that if they relaxed the smoking history requirement, an additional 6,307 people became eligible for screening, including 1,251 who were diagnosed with lung cancer. This is important because it could lead to earlier detection and treatment of lung cancer for those who need it most. Who this helps: Patients, particularly women and Black individuals at risk for lung cancer.

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This study looked at where organ donors in the United States come from, comparing urban and rural areas. Researchers found that while urban areas provide 83.1% of organ donors, rural and micropolitan areas, which together account for 17% of donors, contribute fewer organs than expected based on their population size. This matters because it highlights the potential for increasing organ donations by reaching out to rural communities, where donors tend to be younger and have shown more willingness to donate. Who this helps: Patients in need of organ transplants.

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This study looked at how well young adults who had surgery for a skull condition called craniosynostosis as infants perform in terms of thinking skills and behavior. The results showed that while their overall cognitive abilities were similar to the general population, they struggled more with visual and motor skills. Notably, 23% of the participants showed signs of ADHD, and 13.6% had autism or moderate to severe autism traits. Who this helps: This research helps parents and doctors of children with craniosynostosis by highlighting the need for ongoing assessment and support.

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This research focused on predicting how soon children who have had a heart transplant can return to school. The study analyzed data from over 5,300 pediatric heart transplant recipients and identified 20 factors that influence school attendance after surgery. The researchers found that younger children (under 4 years) had a high predictive score of 0.81 for returning to school, while older children (ages 5-16) had a score of 0.72, suggesting a reliable way to identify which patients may need extra support to resume their education. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric heart transplant patients and their families by helping to identify those at risk for delays in school attendance.

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This study created a family-focused exercise program called Lion Hearts, using a structured planning method to help mothers and their children be more active together. The program includes family CrossFit sessions twice a week, heart health workshops every month, and weekly challenges to do at home. The aim is to encourage families to adopt healthier lifestyles and reduce the risk of heart disease over generations, which is particularly important for mothers facing challenges to find time and support for exercise. Who this helps: This benefits mothers and their children by promoting physical activity and better health habits.

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This study focused on how well children with biliary atresia receive the nutrition they need during their first week in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) after a liver transplant. The researchers looked at 138 children and found that while infants under one year received almost all the calories and protein they needed (about 136% for calories and 157% for protein), older children did not meet their nutritional goals at all. These results show that younger patients have much greater access to essential nutrition after surgery, highlighting the need for tailored nutritional strategies for older children after liver transplantation. Who this helps: This helps pediatricians and healthcare providers manage nutrition support for children after liver transplant.

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The study looked at the outcomes for patients with a specific type of cancer called hilar cholangiocarcinoma (hCCA) who were waiting for liver transplants before and after a policy change in 2019. After implementing the new policy, the chance of these patients receiving a liver transplant within one year increased from 56% to 74%, and their three-year survival on the waiting list improved from 27% to 18%. This is important because it shows that the new policy has made it easier and safer for hCCA patients to access liver transplants compared to before, even though they still experience higher mortality than patients with another type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Who this helps: This helps patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma waiting for liver transplants.

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This study looked at the risk of lung cancer in people who are either too young (under 50) or too old (over 80) to qualify for regular lung cancer screening, compared to those who are eligible (ages 50-80). It found that over two years, lung cancer was diagnosed in 3.43% of eligible screening patients, 1.07% of young patients, and 6.87% of elderly patients. The findings matter because they highlight that while young patients have a lower risk, elderly patients have a higher risk of being diagnosed with later-stage lung cancer, affecting treatment and survival rates. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers by improving understanding of lung cancer risks in different age groups.

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This study looked at a rare skin condition called Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) in a 48-year-old woman who had just received a liver transplant. The patient developed a painful skin rash and other serious symptoms, but doctors were able to successfully treat her even while she was dealing with other complications. Understanding and diagnosing SJS/TEN quickly is essential for the care of patients who have received organ transplants since it can lead to serious health issues. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone organ transplants and their doctors.

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This study looked at how early seizures affect the development of a specific type of epilepsy, called epileptic spasms, in children with STXBP1-related disorders. Researchers analyzed medical histories of 61 affected individuals and found that early seizures did not increase the chance of developing epileptic spasms, with similar rates seen in those with or without early seizures. This information is important for guiding treatments and understanding the disease's progression. Who this helps: This helps doctors and families of children with STXBP1-related disorders.

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This study focused on understanding why some donated hearts for children are not used for transplants, which is a major issue since about 41.5% of donor hearts go unused and children on the waiting list have a 14% chance of dying before receiving a transplant. Researchers analyzed data from over 8,800 young donors and identified 17 key factors that predict whether a donated heart will be utilized, with significant risks linked to low or high heart function and certain infections. This is important because predicting which donor hearts will not be used can help improve organ allocation and ultimately save more children's lives. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients waiting for heart transplants.

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This study looked at how different types of lung cancer care programs affect patient outcomes. Researchers found that patients who received care through structured programs had earlier diagnosed stages of cancer and were much more likely to undergo surgery and additional treatments. Specifically, program-based care led to better survival rates, with significant improvements in overall and lung cancer-specific mortality, compared to those who did not receive such care. Who this helps: This helps patients diagnosed with lung cancer by increasing their chances of receiving effective treatment and improving their survival.

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This research focused on creating a special type of mouse that better mimics human liver conditions to improve gene therapy using adeno-associated viruses (AAV). The new mouse model, called TIRFA, showed a significantly higher success rate of AAV delivering genes into human liver cells, compared to normal mice. This advancement matters because it allows researchers to better predict how effective gene therapy will be in humans and understand how AAV works in a human-like environment. Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers of gene therapy treatments.

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This study looked at the costs and resources used in pediatric liver transplants across the U.S. from 2010 to 2020, focusing on 3,295 children. The average cost for a liver transplant was about $150,836, with hospitals that treated sicker patients facing higher costs due to complications and more intensive care requirements. Understanding these costs can help improve care and outcomes for children needing liver transplants, especially those at high-cost hospitals. Who this helps: This helps patients, healthcare providers, and hospital administrators.

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This study looked at how acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) affects the outcomes of liver transplants in infants and children with biliary atresia. Out of 107 patients, 12% had ACLF, and they experienced more complications during and after surgery, such as higher blood loss and longer hospital stays; for instance, ACLF patients lost an average of 40 mL of blood per kilogram compared to 10 mL in those without ACLF. However, despite these challenges, survival rates one year after the transplant were similar for both groups, highlighting the need to prioritize these critically ill children for transplants. Who this helps: This benefits children with biliary atresia and their families, as well as healthcare providers involved in their care.

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This study looked at the use of Intraoperative Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (iCRRT) during liver transplants in children to see how safe and effective it is. Out of 306 children who had liver transplants, 30 needed kidney support beforehand, and among those, 11 received iCRRT. The findings showed that while iCRRT was safe and helped manage blood and fluids, it didn't change survival rates a year after the transplant. Who this helps: This benefits critically ill children undergoing liver transplant and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the survival rates of adults who are on the waiting list for organ transplants, specifically for kidneys, livers, hearts, and lungs. It found that over 30 years, survival prospects have improved for liver, heart, and lung transplants, with the number of patients receiving heart transplants within a year rising from 52.9% to 57.4% and lung transplants from 33.2% to 73.5%. However, for kidney transplants, the percentage of patients receiving one within a year dropped significantly from 35.8% to 21.2%, leading to a decrease in overall survival rates for kidney transplant patients despite improvements in other areas. Who this helps: This research benefits patients waiting for organ transplants and their families by providing insights into survival trends and challenges.

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This study looked at how to better predict survival outcomes for children who receive liver transplants by creating a new score index called the Pedi-ITT. Researchers analyzed data from over 12,900 pediatric patients between 2002 and 2021 and found that factors such as age, gender, and certain health conditions can significantly impact survival rates. Their new index showed a predictive accuracy of 79%, which is better than existing models, and can help families understand the risks associated with liver transplants. Who this helps: Families of children awaiting or receiving liver transplants.

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This study looked at how different methods of detecting lung cancer—through screening, incidental findings, or regular care—affect patient outcomes after surgery. Out of 1,588 patients, those diagnosed through screening had a 5-year survival rate of 87%, compared to 72% for those diagnosed through incidental findings and 65% for those diagnosed through regular care. The findings show that patients detected through screening have significantly better survival rates compared to those diagnosed outside of screening programs, which highlights the importance of early detection practices. Who this helps: This information benefits lung cancer patients and doctors by emphasizing the value of early detection programs.

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This study looked at a new drug called RLS-0071 to see if it could reduce inflammation in the lungs caused by a substance called lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in healthy people. The results showed that RLS-0071 cut the number of inflammation-causing white blood cells (neutrophils) in sputum by about 50% after six hours. These findings are important because they suggest RLS-0071 could be a safe and effective treatment for inflammatory conditions in humans. Who this helps: Patients with inflammatory lung diseases.

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This study looked at how healthcare workers feel about a process called Living Donation Prior to Planned Withdrawal of Care (LD-PPW), which allows for organ donation from a living donor before ending life-sustaining treatment for patients who won't recover. Out of 1,735 surveyed, 187 responded, and 70% supported LD-PPW, believing it upholds patient rights and benefits others, while 65% felt confident about determining when further care is no longer helpful. This matters because adopting LD-PPW could increase both the number and quality of available organs for transplants, addressing the current shortage. Who this helps: Patients in need of organ transplants.

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This study looked at how effectively special types of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes can produce light across a wide range of temperatures. The researchers found that LEDs worked well at temperatures from 20 Kelvin (very cold) to 295 Kelvin (room temperature), while laser diodes performed well from 77 to 295 Kelvin. This research is important because it helps improve technologies that rely on these light-emitting devices in various environments, such as in low-temperature settings. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers of LED and laser technologies, researchers in optics, and industries using these devices in extreme conditions.

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This study looked at the challenges and costs associated with keeping children on breathing machines after liver transplants. Researchers found that 73% of the children studied were able to come off the machines within 24 hours, while 27% needed longer. Factors like being under one year old and certain medical issues were linked to longer use of these machines, which can cost about three times more for the hospital. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and hospital administrators plan better for children's liver transplant care.

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This study looked at how changing the eligibility requirements for lung cancer screening affects who gets screened, especially focusing on women and racial minorities. It found that by modifying the criteria, more people could qualify for screening: 21% of individuals met the newest criteria compared to only 13% under the old rules. This is important because it means more women (55% of those newly eligible) and black individuals (27% of those newly eligible) can be detected and treated for lung cancer earlier, potentially saving lives. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially women and racial minorities at risk of lung cancer.

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This study looked at liver samples from women who had biliary atresia (a condition affecting bile ducts) and received liver transplants in adulthood. The researchers found that all three patients had significant portal vein issues and experienced complications like high blood pressure in the portal vein for many years—lasting 22 to 30 years before transplantation. This research is important because it highlights that complications can arise long after the initial treatment, affecting how doctors manage adult patients who had biliary atresia. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers better understand and treat adult patients with a history of biliary atresia.

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This study looked at the survival benefits of liver transplants for patients with end-stage liver disease, specifically at low MELD scores. The researchers found that patients transplanted with MELD scores between 6 and 11 had a 31% lower risk of dying compared to those who remained on the waitlist. This benefit increased for higher MELD scores: a 37% reduction for scores between 12 and 14, and a 46% reduction for scores between 15 and 17. These findings suggest that more patients, even those with lower MELD scores, can benefit from a liver transplant than previously thought. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease, especially those with lower MELD scores, by providing access to potentially lifesaving transplants.

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This study looked at how liver transplants for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC) impacted different racial and ethnic groups before and after the introduction of new antiviral treatments. It found that before these treatments, Black patients had a 53% higher risk of dying after a liver transplant compared to White patients, but after the treatments became available, survival rates became similar between the two groups (82.1% for Black patients vs. 85.5% for White patients). This improvement in survival rates after the introduction of direct-acting antivirals highlights progress in reducing healthcare disparities. Who this helps: This benefits Black patients with liver cancer who are awaiting liver transplants.

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This study looked at STXBP1-related disorders, which are rare genetic conditions that cause epilepsy and developmental issues. Researchers interviewed 19 caregivers and 7 healthcare professionals, finding 38 symptoms linked to the disorder, with developmental delay, behavior issues, and seizures being the most common. Understanding these symptoms and their effects on families can help improve care and treatment options for patients. Who this helps: Caregivers and families of individuals with STXBP1-related disorders.

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This study looked at the risk of lung cancer in people undergoing different types of lung monitoring in the Mississippi Delta. It found that 21.3% of those eligible for screening in a lung nodule program were diagnosed with lung cancer, compared to only 1.4% in a group receiving standard low-dose CT scans without concerning nodules. This is important because it shows that even though both groups were monitored, those in the lung nodule program had a much higher rate of lung cancer diagnoses, highlighting the need for better screening practices, especially among Black participants who were more likely to be in the program. Who this helps: Patients at risk of lung cancer, especially Black individuals and those with lung nodules.

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This study looked at how different medical reasons for needing a liver transplant affect children's chances of surviving both while waiting for a transplant and after receiving one. Researchers analyzed data from over 8,000 children and found that kids with conditions like hepatoblastoma faced much higher risks, with a waitlist mortality rate 6.43 times greater than those with biliary atresia, the most common reason for transplants. These findings highlight serious differences in survival rates based on medical conditions, suggesting that adjustments in transplant policies may be necessary to ensure fair access to organs. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients needing liver transplants and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new breathlessness support service in a hospice setting in Ireland, aiming to help people with chronic breathlessness. Researchers gathered data from 10 participants over time, audited 14 medical records, and interviewed others involved in the service, finding that the support service is both practical and well-received, though there are concerns about misconceptions regarding hospice care and the need for clearer referral and discharge processes. Overall, establishing this service can improve patients' quality of life and help them manage their symptoms better. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic breathlessness and their caregivers.

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This study looked at the patterns of seizures and development in 162 individuals with a type of genetic epilepsy. Researchers found that 90% of infants experienced seizures called infantile spasms by 6 months old, and the type of genetic mutation affected how often and when these seizures occurred. Understanding these patterns is crucial for designing future clinical trials and improving treatment strategies for these disorders. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with genetic epilepsies and their doctors by providing clearer insights into their conditions.

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This study looked at how early seizures in babies relate to the development of a specific type of epilepsy called epileptic spasms. Researchers analyzed the medical histories of 61 infants with early seizures, finding that while most continued to have seizures after their first month (25 out of 26), prior early seizures did not increase the risk of developing epileptic spasms. Additionally, they identified certain medications, such as clonazepam and levetiracetam, that were more effective in reducing seizure frequency. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with early-onset seizures and their doctors by providing guidance on treatment options and understanding the risks associated with these seizures.

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This study looked at the long-term survival rates of people who received lung transplants, specifically focusing on those who lived for over 20 years after the surgery. Researchers analyzed data from 6,172 lung transplant recipients and found that only 7.6% lived more than 20 years. Key factors that improved survival included being younger (ages 25-44), receiving a lung from a female donor with minimal mismatch in certain genetic markers, and not having a history of chronic lung disease or significant smoking exposure. Who this helps: This information benefits patients considering lung transplants and their doctors by identifying the best conditions for long-term survival.

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This study looked at a baby girl with a rare genetic condition called TAR syndrome, who developed severe liver failure due to autoimmune hepatitis. She had very high levels of specific antibodies related to her liver disease and needed a liver transplant, but unfortunately, she faced many serious complications after the surgery, which ultimately led to her death. This case is important because it reveals a previously unknown link between TAR syndrome and liver problems, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and treatment in similar patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors and medical professionals who care for patients with TAR syndrome and autoimmune issues.

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This study looked at the patterns of seizures and developmental milestones in children with STXBP1-related disorders, a common type of genetic epilepsy and neurodevelopmental disorder. Researchers examined data from 162 individuals and found that 90% experienced infantile spasms by six months old, while others had different seizure types later, and those with earlier seizure onset generally had lower developmental abilities. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing effective treatments and planning clinical trials. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by providing clearer information on what to expect regarding seizures and development.

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This research looked at the challenges people with disabilities face in getting assistive technologies (like wheelchairs or hearing aids) and how important accurate information is in this process. The study found that users prefer unbiased information, want to participate in choosing their devices, and benefit from seeing equipment in action, with 33 articles supporting these findings. Having the right information and support helps users feel more satisfied and makes sure they use their assistive technologies effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients with disabilities and the professionals assisting them.