KRISTEN E. CURRIE, M.D.

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This study investigated how the way brain cells divide affects the growth of the brain and eyes in mice and other species. Researchers found that altering the orientation of cell divisions increased the number of certain brain progenitor cells by more than six times and caused the retina to grow about 30% larger by creating extra layers of cells. Understanding this process is important because it could lead to insights into brain development and disorders. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors studying brain development and potential treatments for related conditions.

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This study looked at how healthcare workers followed infection prevention and control (IPC) practices during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on different theories that explain how people's behavior can change. Researchers reviewed 2,110 studies and found 19 that used seven different behavior change models, showing that awareness, surroundings, and social influences greatly impacted workers' ability to follow IPC guidelines. Understanding these influences is important because it can help design better strategies to ensure healthcare workers are protected and can safely care for patients. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and the patients they care for by improving safety measures.

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This study explored how surgeons deal with stress and negative interactions, known as microaggressions, in their high-pressure jobs. It introduced a coaching framework designed to help surgeons recognize these subtle slights and build their emotional strength, ultimately improving job satisfaction. By doing so, surgeons can better cope with challenges and rediscover the joy in their work. Who this helps: This benefits surgeons by providing tools to enhance their resilience and job satisfaction.

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This randomized trial enrolled over 2,000 people with dementia and their caregivers across four U.S. sites to compare care managed by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, care managed by a social worker or therapist through a community organization, and usual care. Neither structured approach reduced patients' behavioral symptoms or caregiver strain compared to standard care, and the two programs performed equally with each other. The one meaningful difference was that caregivers in both programs felt more confident managing care than those in the usual-care group.

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This study looked at how healthcare workers in Uganda struggle to follow infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines in their facilities. Researchers interviewed 13 health workers and found that they go through four main steps to make these practices work: recognizing the importance of IPC, taking action, facing challenges, and finding ways to overcome those challenges. Despite these efforts, many barriers made proper implementation hard, but the workers often found creative solutions along the way. This research is important because it sheds light on the real experiences of healthcare workers in low-income settings and could help improve health practices in similar areas. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare workers and patients by improving safety and care in medical facilities.

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This study looked at a new way to measure blood sugar levels without needing to draw blood by using a special device that scans radio frequencies. Researchers tested this device on 31 people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes and found that it accurately categorized their blood sugar levels as high, normal, or low about 93.37% of the time. This finding is important because it shows that a noninvasive method for monitoring blood sugar might provide reliable information for managing diabetes. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes and prediabetes.

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This study looked at the defense systems of a group of microorganisms called Asgard archaea. Researchers found 2,610 complete defense systems in these archaea, including 89 unique types that are similar to those found in higher organisms like humans. These findings show that Asgard archaea may have been crucial in the development of immune responses in more complex life forms. Who this helps: This information benefits scientists studying immunity and the evolution of antiviral defenses in living organisms.

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This study examined how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the team responsible for managing antimicrobial use in hospitals across Scotland. Researchers interviewed 13 healthcare workers from seven hospitals, finding that while the pandemic created challenges like staff shortages, it also led to better teamwork and increased appreciation for antimicrobial stewardship efforts. These insights are important because they highlight the need for improved support and technology for healthcare teams to manage antibiotics effectively, especially during future health crises. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare workers by improving antibiotic management in hospitals.

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This research looked at how patients feel about being put in isolation due to infections from antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They reviewed 18 studies and found that patients often feel torn between appreciating their privacy and struggling with loneliness while isolated, along with having mixed feelings about the quality of care they received. These findings highlight the need for better strategies to support patients in isolation, keeping their emotional and social well-being in mind. Who this helps: This helps patients who are undergoing treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections.

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This study looked at how people with physical disabilities in rural New South Wales experience getting services through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). It found that while participants noticed some positive changes in their lives, they often felt confused and frustrated by the NDIS process, facing problems like delays in getting funding and poor communication with staff. Clearer guidance would help people feel more in control of accessing the support they need. Who this helps: This helps patients with disabilities and their families.

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This study examined the rejection rates of lateral wrist x-ray images at a teaching hospital to see how many needed to be repeated unnecessarily. The researchers found that 85.8% of rejected images were actually acceptable based on clinical standards. Junior radiographers were significantly more likely to call for repeats, agreeing with radiologists only 34.2% of the time, compared to 75.3% agreement from experienced radiographers. Who this helps: This benefits patients by reducing unnecessary x-ray procedures and streamlining medical imaging processes.

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This study examined how different factors impact the activities of Antimicrobial Management Teams (AMTs) in Scotland, focusing on how available staff resources affect their work in managing antibiotic use. Researchers found that while there is a significant difference in the resources allocated to AMTs among various health boards, this does not always correlate with the effectiveness of their activities. In fact, leadership style and the enthusiasm of team members may play a larger role in their success than just the number of staff. Who this helps: This helps hospitals and healthcare managers in improving antibiotic management practices.

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This study looked at how older weightlifters, ages 35 and up, train around the world, focusing on their training habits and differences based on age and gender. Researchers surveyed over 1,000 weightlifters and found that most train for about 1.5 to 2 hours, with 66.9% also doing other types of training, like endurance exercises or CrossFit. Notably, older women train four days a week, while older men typically train three days a week, showing some variations in training practices based on gender and location. Who this helps: This information benefits weightlifters, coaches, and sports organizations working with older athletes.

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This study looked at how an app-based mental health program called Yoga of Immortals (YOI) affected anxiety, depression, and insomnia in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results showed that the healthcare workers who used the YOI app experienced significant reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as improved sleep, while those who did not use the app saw no changes. This is important because it offers a simple, non-drug solution to improve mental health for those who faced immense stress during the pandemic. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare workers who are dealing with high levels of stress and mental health challenges.

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This study focused on how working with patients who have complex psychological trauma, especially those affected by gender-based violence and childhood sexual abuse, impacts therapists. Researchers interviewed 21 therapists and found that, while this work can be challenging, it also leads to personal growth and positive changes in their professional lives. They identified key themes, such as finding meaning from trauma and the importance of connection, and proposed a framework to support therapists' development, emphasizing the need for self-care practices. Who this helps: This benefits therapists and mental health professionals working with trauma survivors.

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This study updated guidelines for treating ear infections in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. It includes ten key steps for diagnosing and managing ear infections, along with 14 ways to prevent them and 37 treatment options. The guidelines stress the importance of antibiotic use for certain conditions and recommend regular ear health checks for at-risk children to improve their overall ear health and hearing. Who this helps: This benefits Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and their families, as well as healthcare providers working with them.

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This study looked at how nurse prescribers in Scotland decide whether to prescribe antibiotics for patients with upper respiratory tract infections. Researchers surveyed 184 nurse prescribers and found that many of them intended to manage these patients without handing out antibiotics. The main influences on their decisions included encouragement from other non-medical prescribers, their own confidence and experience, as well as pressure from patients or caregivers. Who this helps: This benefits nurse prescribers by supporting their decision-making skills and improving patient care.

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This study looked at tiny light-harvesting proteins called microbial rhodopsins in waters off New Zealand that have a lot of nutrients but very little chlorophyll. Researchers found that in these waters, the amount of rhodopsin was much higher—averaging 20 times more than chlorophyll overall, and over 60 times more in the nutrient-rich areas. This is important because it shows how some microbes can thrive in challenging conditions where traditional photosynthesis isn't as effective. Who this helps: This helps scientists and environmentalists understand how marine ecosystems adapt to changing nutrient levels.

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This study explored how caregivers for people with dementia from South Asian, African Caribbean, and Chinese communities in Bristol experience their roles. Researchers interviewed 27 caregivers and held focus groups with 76 more, finding that many caregivers want help but fear it may diminish their identity or independence. They often seek support from community organizations tailored for their specific cultural needs, highlighting the importance of these services as dementia rates are set to soar among BAME populations. Who this helps: This research benefits caregivers from BAME communities and the organizations that support them.

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This study examined different tests to determine if head and neck cancer patients in Northern Ireland had tumors caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Researchers found that only 41% of the patients had HPV-related cancers. Among the tests evaluated, HPV RNA-ISH was the most accurate method at identifying HPV-positive patients, with a 95% accuracy rate, which means it is a reliable way to help decide on patient treatment. Who this helps: This benefits head and neck cancer patients by ensuring they receive the most appropriate treatment based on HPV status.

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This study looked at adult survivors of childhood cancer in the U.S. to see how many carry genetic changes that can increase their risk of developing cancer. The researchers estimate that about 21,800 of these survivors have a gene variant linked to cancer risk, with the highest numbers found among those who survived brain tumors and leukemia. Understanding these risks is important because it helps doctors support these survivors with appropriate cancer screenings and preventive care. Who this helps: Patients who survived childhood cancer and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the growth of the back part of the skull in teenagers who had braces, using advanced imaging technology. Researchers analyzed 60 3D images of adolescents aged 13 to 15 and found very small changes over 17.5 months that weren’t significant enough to impact treatment decisions. This information is important for orthodontists as it confirms that the back part of the skull remains stable during these teenage years, helping them plan and evaluate orthodontic treatments more effectively. Who this helps: This helps orthodontists and their patients accessing treatment during adolescence.

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This study investigated how nurses in the UK understand and deal with the issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in their daily work. It included 20 nurses who shared their views, revealing that their understanding of AMR and how they prioritize it in their tasks varied widely. The findings highlight the need for creative approaches to help nurses better engage with and innovate solutions for preventing AMR, which is crucial for patient safety and effective healthcare. Who this helps: This helps nurses and healthcare professionals in their efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance.

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This study looked at how a national program to use antibiotics more safely is being implemented across different healthcare roles in Scotland. Researchers interviewed 27 healthcare leaders and held focus groups with 72 doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. They found that the main challenges include a lack of resources, different priorities among healthcare professionals, and limited engagement from some nurses and pharmacists—important factors that affect the program's adoption in hospitals. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare providers and policymakers working to improve antibiotic use and combat antibiotic resistance.

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This research looked at ways to make sure doctors review antibiotic treatments in hospitals promptly, which is important for patient care. The study analyzed 14 previous studies and found that most interventions, like using guidelines and providing feedback, helped doctors switch to the right antibiotics faster and reduced how long patients stayed on them. This research is important because timely antibiotic management can lead to better outcomes and reduce the risk of resistance. Who this helps: This helps patients who receive antibiotics in acute care hospitals.

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Many dementia care programs exist, but no rigorous study had compared health-system-based and community-based approaches head to head or against standard care. D-CARE was designed as an 18-month, three-arm randomized trial at four U.S. sites to fill that gap, with behavioral symptoms and caregiver strain as the primary outcomes. The trial also planned to measure cost-effectiveness using Medicare claims, addressing a key gap for health systems deciding how to invest in dementia care.

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This study looked at how to improve hospital screening for MRSA, a type of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics. Researchers surveyed 450 nursing staff and found that three key factors led to higher compliance with screening: making the screening part of routine admissions, the type of clinical area, and receiving feedback on screening rates. Understanding these factors is important because better screening can help reduce the spread of this dangerous infection. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of MRSA and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how reliable different 3D reference points are when using a special type of imaging called cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for orthodontic assessments. The review found that 3D landmarks in the middle of the face were generally more reliable than those found on both sides of the face, but most studies had limitations, making it difficult to combine their results effectively. This is important because accurate measurements help orthodontists create better treatment plans for their patients. Who this helps: This helps orthodontists and their patients.

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This study looked at how the relationships between pet owners and their animals may contribute to the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Researchers interviewed 23 pet owners and found that while people often view their pets as family and share many aspects of their lives, this close bond can also increase the risk of spreading resistant bacteria. However, improving how pet owners and veterinarians use antibiotics could be a way to address this issue effectively. Who this helps: This benefits pet owners and veterinarians by promoting safer antibiotic use.

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This study looked at health risk behaviors in adolescents aged 12-18 in Wiltshire, UK, comparing vulnerable groups (like those in foster care or with special needs) to their non-vulnerable peers. It found that vulnerable young people were more likely to smoke tobacco (15% vs. 9%), use cannabis (7% vs. 5%), and self-harm (16% vs. 9%) regularly. These findings highlight the need to focus on building support systems and protective factors to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable youth. Who this helps: This helps vulnerable adolescents and the professionals who work with them.

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This study looked at how community pharmacists in Saskatchewan feel about the Saskatchewan Medication Assessment Program (SMAP), which helps improve patient medication safety. Out of 1,124 pharmacists, 228 responded, and 89.7% of them agreed that the program is successfully enhancing medication safety. However, they also noted challenges like time constraints and patient access, which can make it harder to provide these assessments. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need better medication management and safety.

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This study looked at how patients feel about being tested and treated for a type of bacteria called carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) while in the hospital. Nine patients were interviewed, revealing two main feelings: many struggled to understand what CPE is, and some felt blamed for their condition. Understanding these experiences is important because it highlights the need for healthcare providers to support patients better with clear information and emotional care. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare professionals by improving communication and support in hospital settings.

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This study is examining new treatments for chronic ear infections (CSOM) in Aboriginal Australian children, which can lead to long-term hearing loss. It will involve 280 children and compare standard treatments with new options, including a povidone-iodine ear wash and an oral antibiotic called cotrimoxazole. These treatments aim to clear ear infections more effectively, as current methods only work in 30% of cases. Who this helps: This research helps Aboriginal children suffering from chronic ear infections and their families.

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This study looked at the outcomes of ear surgery called myringoplasty in Indigenous Australian children living in remote areas. Out of 412 surgeries, 64.2% were successful in closing the eardrum, and after surgery, the number of children needing hearing aids dropped from 84% to 34%. This matters because it shows that even when the surgery isn't completely successful, these children can still experience significant improvements in hearing and ear health. Who this helps: Indigenous children with ear issues and their families.

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This study looked at how to best determine HPV status in patients with a type of throat cancer called oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Researchers found that using new TNM8 staging improved survival predictions for patients compared to older methods; for example, patients who tested positive for a protein (p16+) but were actually negative for HPV had a much lower five-year survival rate of only 33% compared to 77% for p16+ patients who were HPV positive. Understanding these differences is crucial because it helps ensure that patients receive the right level of treatment, avoiding potentially ineffective reduced treatments for those who need more aggressive care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by ensuring better treatment decisions for throat cancer.

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This study looked at a new way to measure tissue temperature during hand and upper limb surgeries using smartphone-based thermal imaging (SBTI) compared to a traditional infrared temperature scanner. Researchers tested 30 healthy individuals and found that SBTI was more precise than the traditional method, with a repeatability score of 0.97 versus 0.89. This matters because SBTI not only provides quick and accurate temperature readings but also creates a temperature map of the whole hand, which is beneficial for monitoring injuries and can improve patient care in telemedicine. Who this helps: Patients and doctors in surgical and telemedicine settings.

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This study investigated whether oceanic fronts, areas where different water types meet, act as places of high diversity for tiny ocean organisms called bacterioplankton. Researchers found that while these fronts do change the types of bacterioplankton present depending on the season, they do not lead to increased diversity like similar areas on land do. Specifically, the study showed that although shifts in communities occur, they do not create a hotspot for diversity among bacterioplankton. Who this helps: This information benefits marine biologists and environmental scientists studying ocean ecosystems.

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This study looked at how patients feel and cope when they get infections related to their health care, known as health care-associated infections (HAIs). Researchers reviewed 17 studies from various countries and found that patients share similar feelings about these infections, which include both physical and emotional responses, how they interacted with health care workers, and how they adapted to life with an infection. This understanding is important because it highlights the social and emotional challenges patients face, which can inform better support and treatment practices. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with HAIs and healthcare providers who want to support them effectively.

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This study examined how veterinarians can help reduce the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pets by focusing on important behaviors in their practice. Experts identified key actions, with the most significant being how vets prescribe antibiotics and communicate with pet owners. They also highlighted the need for better teamwork among veterinary staff and proper infection control practices. These findings are crucial because improving these behaviors can help ensure that effective antibiotics remain available for treating sick animals. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners by promoting safer and more responsible antibiotic use.

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This study looked at how pet owners and veterinarians communicate about antibiotics and the issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Researchers interviewed 23 pet owners and 16 veterinarians in the UK and found that there are significant misunderstandings about antibiotic use. For example, veterinarians felt that pet owners often pressured them to prescribe antibiotics, while pet owners believed that veterinarians were giving prescriptions too easily. This is important because enhancing education and communication about antibiotic use can lead to better practices and help address the growing problem of AMR. Who this helps: This helps pet owners and veterinarians improve their understanding and management of antibiotic use.

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This study looked at how different environmental factors, like nutrient levels and snow coverage, affect the growth and health of algae living in Antarctic sea ice. The researchers found that high concentrations of nutrients like phosphate and nitrate are linked to lower photosynthetic efficiency in algae, suggesting that the ice was past its peak growth period during the summer. Understanding these relationships is important because changes in sea ice could impact the entire marine ecosystem as the ice melts and affects nutrient cycling. Who this helps: This helps scientists and environmentalists studying climate change and marine life.

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This study looked at the genetic risks that long-term survivors of childhood cancer face for developing new cancers later in life. Researchers analyzed samples from over 3,000 survivors and found that 5.8% had harmful genetic mutations. Those with these mutations faced a much higher risk of developing certain cancers: for example, those who received radiation had a 14 times higher risk of breast cancer, while those who did not have radiation exposure had an 18 times higher risk of developing multiple distinct cancers. Who this helps: This research benefits childhood cancer survivors and their doctors by informing them about genetic risks and the need for genetic counseling.

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This study examined how veterinarians in the UK decide to prescribe antibiotics for pets. Researchers interviewed 16 veterinary surgeons and discovered that various factors influence their prescribing. They found that awareness of antibiotic resistance and the desire to prevent infections can help improve antibiotic use, while barriers include business pressures and habits. Understanding these influences is important because it can lead to better prescribing practices, helping to reduce the problem of drug-resistant bacteria. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and pet owners by promoting safer antibiotic use in veterinary medicine.

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This study looked at how acceptable screening for a type of drug-resistant bacteria called Carbapenemase Producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) is to nursing staff and the general public. The researchers found that nursing staff were more accepting of screening if they believed CPE could have serious consequences (7 times more likely) and if they were knowledgeable about hospital screening policies (3 times more likely). Meanwhile, the public's acceptance depended on their understanding of antimicrobial resistance and their views on isolating patients if they had CPE. This matters because improving acceptance of CPE screening is crucial for controlling outbreaks and protecting patients. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of CPE, medical staff, and public health officials.

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This research focused on the challenges men face with sexual dysfunction after surgery for prostate cancer, specifically radical prostatectomy. The study found that while traditional treatments for erectile dysfunction improve symptoms, many patients stop using them within a year because they don't fully address the emotional and relational aspects of the issue. The new Prostate Cancer Rehabilitation Clinic was created to provide a more comprehensive approach that includes medical support, psychological help, and involvement from partners to enhance sexual health and intimacy. Who this helps: This helps prostate cancer survivors and their partners by providing better support for sexual health.

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This research reviewed 29 studies about infection prevention and control (IPC) measures implemented at national and local levels in wealthy countries. The findings showed that these measures, particularly multimodal approaches and ongoing monitoring, effectively reduce healthcare-related infections and antibiotic resistance, with the strongest evidence supporting the effectiveness of these strategies. This matters because better IPC programs can significantly improve patient safety and healthcare quality. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by enhancing safety in medical settings.

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This study looked at how the back part of the skull grows and changes over time in humans by reviewing 23 different research articles on the topic. The findings showed that the growth of this skull area, known as the posterior cranial base, is influenced by specific growth points and continues to change slightly even into late adulthood. Understanding this growth helps doctors better assess craniofacial development and plan treatments for conditions related to skull and facial structure. Who this helps: Patients with craniofacial issues and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at different methods for diagnosing problems with the upper jaw and teeth, specifically transverse deficiencies. It found that common dental measurement techniques are often unreliable, while images from a special type of scan called CBCT appear to be more trustworthy. However, the research also emphasizes that current studies are of low quality, and more rigorous tests are needed to confirm these results. Who this helps: This helps dentists and orthodontists improve their ability to diagnose and treat jaw alignment issues.