DR. JEFFREY DEAN HYDE, M.D.

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This study looked at how adults with opioid use disorder (OUD) used telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the year before. Before the pandemic, only a tiny percentage of patients used telehealth—0.26% for those with commercial insurance, 1.16% for Medicaid, and 2.67% for Veterans. After the pandemic began, these numbers jumped significantly to 12.7%, 18.8%, and 15.8%, respectively, but in-person treatment remained the main way OUD was managed, and telehealth adoption varied a lot depending on the type of insurance and patient characteristics. Who this helps: This benefits patients with opioid use disorder, especially those relying on Medicaid or Veterans health services.

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This study looked at patients in North America who had surgery for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), a condition that causes spinal issues. Researchers found that out of 81 patients, most were Black (53.1%), the average age was 60, and over half had diabetes. The surgeries mostly went well, with only 3.7% of patients experiencing post-operative death and no one needing to be reoperated on, which is important as it suggests surgery is safe and effective for treating OPLL. Who this helps: This benefits patients with OPLL and healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at whether a device that stimulates a nerve in the forehead, called external trigeminal nerve stimulation (TNS), could help children and teens with ADHD. Researchers tested this on 150 participants and found that using the real device did not result in any significant improvement in ADHD symptoms compared to a fake version of the device, with only a slight difference that was not meaningful. This matters because, even though TNS is safe and has no serious side effects, it does not work to reduce symptoms of ADHD in young people. Who this helps: This helps healthcare providers and families managing ADHD, as they can rule out TNS as a treatment option.

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This study looked at how patients with sacral chordomas, a rare type of tumor in the lower back, can be treated without surgery. Researchers examined 11 studies involving 52 patients and found that nearly 58% of those treated with advanced types of radiation therapy, like carbon ion therapy and proton beam therapy, did not see their cancer return after an average of two years. This is important because it provides a viable treatment option for patients who may not be able to undergo surgery due to health risks. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have sacral chordomas but cannot have surgery.

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This study looked at how researchers partnered with leaders in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system to improve a patient-focused care model called the Whole Health System. Over 58 research projects from 2013 to 2024 resulted in 380 tools and reports that helped refine this care model and support its growth. This matters because it shows how combining research with practical healthcare operations can lead to better care for patients by making evidence-based improvements in health practices. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving care from the VA health system.

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This study focused on how to better prepare clinical champions—leaders in healthcare—to help implement new health practices in large healthcare systems. Researchers used a model called ADKAR that outlines steps needed for successful change, and their evaluation showed that when champions understood their role and saw the benefits of the new practices, they were more effective. For instance, champions who progressed through these steps were better able to support their colleagues, ultimately leading to better healthcare for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving the implementation of effective health practices.

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The study looked at the health goals of 176 veterans who have experienced homelessness, examining what goals they have and how these relate to their health needs. The researchers discovered that these goals fall into three main areas: social functioning, health promotion, and substance use. They found that mental and physical health needs were mainly linked to health promotion goals, while substance use was specifically tied to goals around substance use itself, showing that addressing these goals can improve overall health. Who this helps: This benefits homeless veterans seeking to improve their health and well-being.

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Researchers looked at how often and why patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) used health and wellness coaching in the U.S. Veterans Health Administration from 2021 to 2023. They found that only 4.4% of patients used coaching, mainly concentrated in just 13 medical centers, and less than 6% attended the recommended number of sessions. Women, Black and Hispanic/Latino individuals, and those with multiple health issues were more likely to use coaching, indicating a need to improve access and outreach for this support. Who this helps: Patients with COPD and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a method called patient-specific instrumentation (PSI), which uses 3D-printed tools to help place screws in a safer and more accurate way during spine surgery. Researchers reviewed 18 studies that involved over 620 patients and more than 2800 screws, finding that PSI techniques generally had a screw placement accuracy above 90% and a very low error rate of under 4%. This means that using PSI can make spine surgeries safer and easier, especially for patients with complex anatomy or for inexperienced surgeons who might benefit from having extra help. Who this helps: Patients undergoing spine surgery and the surgeons performing these procedures.

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This research looks at how surgical case logs are used in orthopaedics to track surgeon experience and skill. The study found that current logging methods often focus on the number of cases instead of actual competence, which can lead to inconsistencies and less useful data. Improvements like artificial intelligence and better electronic health record systems are expected to make these logs more effective in measuring a surgeon's readiness for solo practice. Who this helps: This benefits medical trainees and educators by providing a clearer understanding of surgical skills.

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This study looks at a program called EMPOWER designed to help homeless veterans improve their health by providing support from peers and promoting overall wellness. Researchers are comparing two levels of support strategies—low-intensity and high-intensity—across seven sites to see which is more effective in helping these veterans engage with healthcare services. They will also analyze the costs of implementing this program to guide future efforts in supporting this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This research benefits homeless veterans and the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study examined the effectiveness of using environmental DNA (eDNA) to understand fish biodiversity in rivers across the globe by analyzing data from 58 different studies involving 1,818 sampling locations. The researchers found that while the overall estimates of fish species richness were consistent, identifying the specific species varied widely depending on the quality of reference data used. This matters because ensuring accurate and comparable biodiversity assessments helps better protect aquatic ecosystems and manage fish populations. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, conservationists, and policymakers working to protect fish species and habitats.

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This study looked at how well outreach programs could connect with people who survived an overdose involving stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine. After introducing a new outreach toolkit in March 2023, the success rate of contacting these survivors increased from 37.5% to 52.1%. This is important because it shows that targeted strategies can significantly improve engagement with overdose survivors, helping to reduce the chances of future overdoses. Who this helps: This benefits overdose survivors, outreach programs, and public health initiatives.

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This study looked at the spiritual support provided to homeless U.S. veterans who are now in permanent housing through a program called HUD-VASH. Researchers found that 74.6% of veterans wanted help with spiritual needs, especially those facing various challenges, but many staff felt that spiritual support was not adequately offered. Addressing this gap could improve the overall health and well-being of these vulnerable veterans. Who this helps: This benefits veterans who are seeking spiritual support in addition to housing.

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This study looked at social needs among rural Veterans and how these needs affect their health. Over 80% of Veterans surveyed reported having at least one social need, like feeling isolated or struggling with finances, with those in the Southeast reporting higher rates. Many social needs were linked to worse physical and mental health, especially financial struggles, which increased the likelihood of poor health by about 21-32%, and difficulties in daily activities, which raised the risk by 27-34%. Who this helps: This research helps Veterans and healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of addressing social needs to improve health outcomes.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic affected veterans with opioid use disorder (OUD) by comparing their emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and drug overdose incidents before and after the pandemic. Researchers found that the number of visits to emergency departments and hospitalizations dropped significantly, with a nearly 50% decrease in nonfatal overdoses, but overdose deaths increased by 38%. This matters because it indicates that while fewer veterans received medical help for overdoses, more were dying from them, highlighting a serious gap in treatment and care during the pandemic. Who this helps: This information is crucial for veterans, healthcare providers, and policymakers working to improve treatment for opioid use disorder.

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This study focused on understanding the spiritual needs of Veterans who are returning to their communities after being incarcerated. Researchers interviewed six Veterans and six staff members, uncovering key insights about how spirituality can positively impact their well-being and help reduce the likelihood of re-offending. They found that while spiritual support is helpful, it currently has limitations and suggested improvements to better meet these Veterans' needs. Who this helps: This benefits Veterans reintegrating into society after incarceration.

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This study examined how the Personal Health Inventory (PHI) can improve care for homeless veterans with mental health and substance use issues as they enter a rehabilitation program. About half of the 64 veterans surveyed shared that reconnection with family, improving health, and self-discovery were their top priorities. The findings showed that the veterans were least satisfied with their relationships, personal development, and living conditions, which helps staff set better goals and tailor resources for individual needs. Who this helps: This benefits veterans experiencing homelessness and their healthcare providers.

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This study measured the mutation rate in white abalone, a critically endangered mollusk, finding it to be about 8.6 mutations per billion DNA bases for each generation. This mutation rate is similar to that of long-lived vertebrates but higher than that of faster-reproducing invertebrates. Understanding this mutation rate is important because it helps scientists grasp the evolutionary history and current population health of the abalone, which can inform conservation efforts. Who this helps: This benefits conservationists, researchers, and the preservation of abalone species.

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This study looked at how veterans who are readjusting to life after incarceration view the support they receive from peer specialists. Researchers interviewed 25 veterans and found that the most valued aspects of this support were the peer specialist's availability, shared experiences, and ability to connect them to useful resources. These factors greatly helped veterans manage the challenges they faced after reentry, making it easier for them to navigate their new lives. Who this helps: This helps veterans transitioning out of incarceration by providing them with effective support from their peers.

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This study looked at why some adults in the U.S. are hesitant to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza between 2019 and 2022. Researchers found that 44.6% of hospitalized patients were unvaccinated for COVID-19, compared to 37.8% for influenza. Key factors for hesitancy included being younger, less educated, and not having a regular doctor, and discussions with healthcare providers were more likely to encourage vaccination for influenza than COVID-19. Who this helps: This information benefits public health officials and healthcare providers working to improve vaccination rates among patients.

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This study looked at how green abalone populations are connected genetically from California to Baja California, focusing on their adaptations and how they relate to their environment. Researchers found three distinct groups of green abalone and determined that factors like geographic distance and ocean currents are more influential on their genetic makeup than local environmental adaptations. This matters because understanding these connections helps in creating better conservation strategies for abalone populations, ensuring their survival across borders. Who this helps: This benefits conservationists and researchers working to protect marine species.

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This study looked at how interested young people aged 14 to 17, who were hospitalized with mental health issues, were in getting information about contraception and starting to use it. Of the 451 participants, over half (51.3%) wanted information on contraception, while about one-fifth (21.4%) were interested in starting to use it. Factors that increased interest included not knowing how to access contraception and challenges in getting to places where they could obtain it, especially among those who were sexually active. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents with psychiatric disorders and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well the VA Whole Health program is helping Veterans with multiple mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. The researchers found that Veterans with more mental health diagnoses were significantly more likely to use the program, showing a 236% increase in participation for those with three diagnoses compared to those with none. This is important because it suggests the program is effectively reaching and supporting Veterans who often have more complex healthcare needs. Who this helps: This helps Veterans dealing with multiple mental health conditions.

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This study examined how using complementary and integrative health (CIH) services influences whether veterans experiencing homelessness complete a specific rehabilitation program. Researchers found that veterans who had 4 to 6 CIH visits were 3.3 times more likely to complete the program, and those with 7 or more visits were 4.8 times more likely to finish compared to veterans who did not use these services. This matters because it shows that access to CIH services can significantly improve rehabilitation outcomes for veterans. Who this helps: This benefits veterans experiencing homelessness.

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This study looked at suicide rates among veterans with substance use disorders, specifically focusing on how men and women differ in their risk and methods of suicide. Researchers found that 4.5% of veterans with alcohol and opioid use disorders died by suicide, with women being significantly more likely to die by suicide than men—2.25 times more likely and at younger ages, losing an average of 32 years of life compared to 21 years for men. The primary method of suicide for both genders was intentional poisoning, with women being over twice as likely to die from poisoning than men, while men were more likely to use firearms. Who this helps: This research benefits women veterans with substance use disorders by highlighting the urgent need for targeted suicide prevention efforts.

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This study explored ways to provide urological care that produces less carbon emissions, aiming for high-quality and eco-friendly treatments. Researchers reviewed various papers and proposed a framework called STEPS, which includes strategies like reducing harmful gases and electricity use in operating rooms. They found potential in shifting to more efficient practices, such as one-stop clinics and virtual appointments, which could lower emissions, save costs, and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients, healthcare providers, and environmental advocates benefit from these sustainable practices in urological care.

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This study looked at the rising rates of serious bacterial infections in veterans who use drugs. Researchers found that these infections are becoming more common, indicating an urgent need for better ways to prevent them, especially those caused by gram-negative bacteria. Understanding this trend is crucial because it can help in creating targeted health strategies to protect vulnerable veterans. Who this helps: This benefits veterans who use substances and the healthcare providers caring for them.

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This study looked at how opioid overdose deaths affected veterans with opioid use disorder between 2016 and 2021, focusing on differences in sex and race. Among 203,950 veterans, 16% (32,640) died during this period, with opioid overdoses accounting for 17.42% (5,686) of all deaths. While the overall risk of dying from an overdose decreased, young veterans (ages 18-29) and female veterans faced a higher risk, with Black and Asian veterans also more likely to die from overdoses compared to White veterans. Who this helps: This research benefits veterans, healthcare providers, and policymakers working to address overdose risks.

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This study looked at the challenges that women aged 40-65 face in accessing health services related to their wellbeing, including sexual health, screenings, menopause care, and more. Researchers spoke with 60 women and non-binary participants in the South-East of England and found three main issues: midlife women are often overlooked, there is a lack of understanding about their needs, and stigma prevents them from getting care, especially regarding sexual health. Addressing these challenges is crucial because women in this age group, particularly those from underserved communities, need better support and services tailored to their specific health concerns. Who this helps: This helps midlife women, especially those from underserved communities.

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This study focuses on health coaching, where trained professionals help people achieve their health goals. Researchers found that while health coaching can improve health outcomes and help manage chronic conditions, there's limited research on its costs and financial effects, with mixed results in past studies. This matters because understanding the costs associated with health coaching is essential for healthcare systems to decide if it’s a worthwhile investment. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare providers and organizations considering health coaching programs.

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This study looked at outreach programs in Massachusetts that support people after drug overdoses, comparing their activities before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that there were 256 active programs as of July 2022, with 96 starting during the pandemic. These programs primarily provided resources like naloxone and fentanyl test strips, and they adapted by using phone and text outreach methods, as well as expanding their focus to include users of stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from overdoses, as well as their families and the overall community.

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This study looked at how helpful follow-up phone calls from Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse specialists are for patients after they leave the hospital. Out of 125 patients surveyed, 98% found the calls useful, with 97% saying their physical health needs and 96% saying their emotional health needs were addressed. This is important because it shows that such calls can provide important support during recovery from serious illnesses. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from critical care stays and their families.

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This study looked at how a specific type of blood flow affects the health of blood vessel cells in the lungs of newborn lambs after a surgical procedure known as the Glenn operation. Researchers found that the blood flow in these lambs was not pulsating and this led to unhealthy changes in the cells that line the lung blood vessels, with lower levels of important signaling molecules and increased cell growth. These findings highlight the harmful effects of nonpulsatile blood flow on lung health, which could contribute to serious lung diseases in patients with similar heart issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with single ventricular heart disease and their doctors by providing insights into potential risks after surgery.

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This study looked at how a lack of normal pulsing blood flow affects the health of blood vessel cells in the lungs of lambs that underwent a specific heart surgery called the Glenn procedure. The researchers found that the lambs with the Glenn procedure had higher blood pressure in the lungs, lower blood flow in certain areas, and their blood vessel cells didn’t respond well to a relaxing agent. Specifically, the lambs' endothelial cells showed increased growth and blood vessel formation but fewer cells dying, indicating early dysfunction (with significant changes noted in the measurements). Why it matters: Understanding these changes is crucial because it helps explain how patients with similar heart conditions might develop lung problems, potentially leading to better treatments in the future. Who this helps: This benefits patients with single ventricle heart disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how often emergency responders make mistakes when triaging patients during a simulated mass casualty event using virtual reality. Of the 99 responders tested, they accurately sorted patients 70% of the time and worked efficiently 78% of the time, with an average interaction time of 20 seconds per patient and a total assessment and treatment time of six minutes for life-threatening injuries. Most mistakes stemmed from the responders’ experience levels, but some were due to challenges like chaotic visual and auditory environments. Who this helps: This research benefits emergency responders by improving their training and preparedness for real-life mass casualty situations.

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This study looked at how well emergency responders could use a triage system called SALT in a virtual reality (VR) simulation of a terrorist bombing in a subway station. Among 282 participants, 94% correctly followed the SALT commands, and on average, they took 7.8 minutes to triage and treat all patients, achieving a triage accuracy of 75.8%. Notably, 77% successfully controlled all life-threatening bleeding within about 5.3 minutes, with paramedics generally performing better than less experienced medical trainees. Who this helps: This benefits emergency medical service workers and improves the care they provide to patients in crisis situations.

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This study focused on understanding how certain brain cells in a mouse model of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affect compulsive behaviors, like excessive grooming. The researchers found that overactivity in a specific group of brain cells, called indirect pathway neurons, is linked to heightened grooming behaviors, and reducing their activity—either with light manipulation techniques or the common OCD medication fluoxetine—led to less grooming. This finding is important because it suggests that targeting these specific neurons might be an effective approach for treating compulsive behaviors in OCD. Who this helps: This helps patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder and their doctors.

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This study looked at how state officials adapted opioid use disorder treatment policies during the COVID-19 pandemic and learned that these changes helped people access treatment more easily and maintain consistent care. The researchers spoke with 13 stakeholders from six states and found that no one reported a rise in negative side effects from the relaxed treatment rules. Understanding these experiences is important as federal policymakers decide whether to make these flexible treatment options permanent, ensuring better support for those struggling with opioid use disorder. Who this helps: Patients battling opioid use disorder and those involved in their treatment.

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This research looked at how non-clinical arts programs, like art classes and workshops, help Veterans' health and well-being within the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Interviews with 33 people, including Veterans and VA staff, revealed that these programs led to significant benefits, such as improvements in mental health (noted by many), a renewed sense of purpose, stronger social connections, better self-esteem, and active participation in creative activities. This is important because it shows that art programs can play a valuable role in supporting Veterans, contributing to more holistic healthcare approaches. Who this helps: Veterans seeking improved mental health and community connection.

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This study looked at how making vocal sounds affects our mood. Researchers tested 40 participants and found that after they made speech sounds, they rated unpleasant images as less negative and felt less excited after viewing positive images compared to when they were just breathing or not vocalizing. This is important because it suggests that speaking can help make negative feelings less intense, which could improve emotional well-being. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with negative emotions or mental health issues.

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This study looked at how antipsychotic drugs affect a specific gene (Dpysl2) linked to schizophrenia in rats exposed to prenatal stress from high temperatures. The researchers found that while the drugs did not change the activity of this gene, they did shorten the lifespan of the rats. This is significant because it highlights the potential risks of using antipsychotic drugs during critical developmental periods, raising concerns about their impact on gene function and health. Who this helps: This information is important for doctors and researchers working with pregnant individuals and their unborn children, especially in relation to mental health treatments.

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This study looked at the heart function of Hispanic/Latino individuals to understand why, despite higher rates of conditions like stroke and diabetes, they have fewer heart rhythm issues. Out of nearly 15,700 participants, about 17% showed signs of potential heart problems related to electrical activity in the heart, while 83% were resilient to these issues. This matters because it highlights a unique protective factor in this community that could inform better healthcare strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers working with the Hispanic/Latino population.

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This study focuses on creating a plan to bring a patient-centered care approach, known as Whole Health, from general health settings to HIV specialty care for veterans. Researchers aim to develop a strategy that helps healthcare providers understand and implement Whole Health practices specifically for HIV patients, using both numbers and feedback from patients and care teams. The findings will help ensure that veterans living with HIV receive care that prioritizes their personal health goals and well-being. Who this helps: This benefits veterans living with HIV and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined differences in heart electrical activity among Spanish-speaking groups in the U.S., focusing on 15,684 participants from various backgrounds. Researchers found that Dominicans had a narrower heart signal angle, while Puerto Ricans and Dominicans had more pronounced backward heart signals compared to Mexicans and South Americans. These variations matter because they highlight how genetic and cultural factors can impact heart health risks and outcomes among different Hispanic/Latino groups. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare providers in better understanding heart health among Hispanic/Latino patients.

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This study looked at a 29-year-old woman in Philadelphia who had lepromatous leprosy, a rare form of the infection marked by a progressive rash and nerve pain. When doctors examined her skin, they found bacteria that confirmed her diagnosis. This case is important because it highlights the need for healthcare providers to recognize leprosy, especially as cases are increasing, even in areas where it is not commonly seen. Who this helps: Doctors and patients at risk of leprosy.

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The QUADS study looked at the quality of life for patients who survived surgery for a serious heart condition called Type A aortic dissection in the UK. They found that out of 162 patients, 41% reported a good quality of life, 55% said it was fair, and only 4% described it as poor. The study identified factors like complications during surgery and recovery that impact these patients' well-being. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone Type A aortic dissection surgery by providing insights into their recovery and quality of life.