DR. MICHAEL R. ROLLINS, M.D.

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This study looked at a noisy breathing issue called nasal rustle that can happen in patients with a condition called velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI), which affects how air flows through the nose. Researchers found that rather than the soft palate vibrating, the sound is more likely caused by uneven mucus flow above a narrow opening in the throat. Understanding this helps improve diagnosis and treatment for patients dealing with this distracting sound. Who this helps: Patients with velopharyngeal insufficiency and their doctors.

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This study looked at a new way to manage pain after a complex surgery for a 62-year-old man who needed both shoulders fixed due to injuries. Instead of the usual nerve block, which can cause complications, doctors used a cervical epidural for pain relief during and after surgery, allowing the patient to leave the hospital comfortably on the sixth day. This approach matters because it provides effective pain management without the risks associated with traditional methods. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing similar shoulder surgeries.

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This study focused on making blood orders for pediatric patients clearer and more straightforward to improve safety during blood transfusions. After making changes to the electronic ordering system, the researchers found that there was a significant decrease in the number of order changes needed within an hour and no serious safety incidents linked to transfusions for a year. These improvements are crucial because they help ensure that young patients receive safe and appropriate blood transfusions. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers working with pediatric patients.

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This study looked at Hirschsprung's disease, a condition where some nerve cells are missing in the colon, causing serious digestive issues. Researchers found that while some precursor cells for neurons were present, the mature neurons necessary for proper colon function were absent in affected areas. Specifically, critical genes involved in turning these precursor cells into mature neurons were not functioning properly. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Hirschsprung's disease by providing insights for potential new treatments to help their condition.

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This study focused on improving how blood products are ordered in pediatric hospitals to prevent mistakes that can harm patients. By testing a redesigned blood order system with 20 health professionals, the researchers made seven important design changes, which led to a significant reduction in errors when the new system was put into use. Although the ease of use scores showed only a slight improvement, the actual error rates in blood orders decreased, making the ordering process safer for children. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children needing blood products, and the healthcare providers ordering them.

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This study looked at how different types of face masks, like neck gaiters, surgical masks, and N95 masks, affect the sound quality of singing. Researchers found that surgical and N95 masks dampened certain frequencies of the singing voice, making it harder for listeners to perceive the performance clearly, while neck gaiters had less impact. This is important because it suggests that singers might need to choose specific masks to better preserve their sound while still being safe from COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps singers and performers choose the best masks for their craft.

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This study focused on creating clear models of a person's vocal tract to aid research and education. The researchers developed a simpler, more cost-effective way to make these models by using 3D printing and silicone casting. This new method can produce accurate vocal tract replicas, which could be made more reliably and at a lower cost than previous techniques. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, educators, and healthcare professionals working with speech and voice disorders.

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This study looked at how a user-friendly clinical decision support (CDS) system could reduce errors when ordering blood products for children. The findings showed that the number of significant ordering mistakes dropped from 6 to 1 per month and that the rate of unnecessary transfusions decreased from 28.1% to 22.9%. This matters because minimizing these errors can help ensure safer blood transfusions for kids, who are particularly vulnerable to transfusion-related complications. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their doctors by improving the safety of blood transfusions.

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This study examined the use of a protocol that allowed emergency medical services (EMS) to leave low-risk COVID-19 patients at home rather than taking them to the hospital. During two periods in 2020 and 2022, about 83% of the patients treated under this protocol were appropriate candidates, and most (97%) did not need to return to the emergency room within 24 hours. This approach helped reduce pressure on hospitals during COVID-19 surges while safely caring for patients at home. Who this helps: This helps patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms and healthcare systems by reducing overcrowding.

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This study looked at how paramedics use adenosine to treat a fast heart rate condition called supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) from January 2019 to September 2021. They found that adenosine was administered successfully in nearly half of the cases they reviewed, and when doctors could confirm the presence of SVT using EKGs, the success rate increased to 87%. This matters because it shows that while adenosine can be an effective treatment for SVT in the field, there is still a need to help paramedics recognize when it should be used. Who this helps: Patients experiencing fast heart rates and the paramedics treating them.

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This study looked at fecal incontinence among children with anorectal malformations, which are birth defects affecting the anus. They examined data from 509 patients and found that only 24% had full control over their bowel movements. Older children tended to have better outcomes, but those with a mix of private and public health insurance were less likely to have full control compared to those with only private insurance. Who this helps: This research benefits children with anorectal malformations and their families, as well as doctors seeking to improve care for these patients.

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This study focused on patients with acromio-clavicular (AC) joint issues, examining what symptoms and recovery outcomes matter to them and to the surgeons treating them. Researchers held discussions with 16 patients, split between those with AC joint instability and those with osteoarthritis. They found that patients highlighted specific pain types and locations as important, which are not considered in current medical assessments—showing that the reasons for AC joint problems may lead to different recovery needs. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with AC joint issues and their doctors by improving treatment and rehabilitation plans.

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This study looked at how waiting for surgery affects the quality of life for people with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). It involved 53 patients who were either operated on early (within 12 weeks) or after a longer wait (at least 12 weeks). The researchers found that patients who waited longer experienced a more prolonged reduction in their quality of life, but there was no significant difference in the likelihood of getting additional knee injuries for either group. Who this helps: This helps patients with ACL injuries and their doctors in making decisions about timing for surgery.

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This study focused on children and teenagers with a rare blood disorder called immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) and looked at their symptoms, treatments, and long-term brain health. Researchers examined 18 patients and found that 85% responded well to treatment, but 73% experienced ongoing brain issues like learning difficulties or depression. This is important because it shows that even after treatment, these young patients may need extra support for their cognitive and emotional health. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from iTTP and their doctors by highlighting the need for ongoing mental health assessments.

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This study looked at the roles of advanced care practitioners (ACPs), like nurse practitioners and physician assistants, in pediatric surgery. Researchers found that most hospitals have around three ACPs each, with 89% involved in surgical procedures and 80% billing for their services. Understanding how ACPs are used in these settings is important because it helps improve patient care and ensures that hospitals have the necessary resources. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients and the healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at the benefits of using a special gel called levodopa-carbidopa for 24 hours in people with advanced Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that this round-the-clock treatment can help reduce nighttime symptoms and improve sleep quality in some patients, making their overall experience with the disease better. Although there are limited studies, those who might struggle with issues like unresponsive movements or severe dyskinesias could particularly benefit from this approach. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced Parkinson's disease who experience severe symptoms at night.

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This study looked at how continuing folic acid supplements during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy affects children's brain development and thinking skills when they reach 11 years old. The researchers found that children whose mothers took folic acid scored better on speed-related tasks, with an average increase of 2.9 points on one test and 11.3 points on another test compared to children whose mothers took a placebo. Additionally, girls showed a significant improvement in verbal comprehension by 6.5 points. This matters because it shows that taking folic acid during later pregnancy stages may enhance cognitive abilities in children, not just help prevent birth defects. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and their children by showing the importance of folic acid for brain development.

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This study looked at the recovery outcomes for newborns who had surgery to repair certain types of fistulas (abnormal connections) in their rectum, comparing those who had surgery within two weeks of birth to those who had it later. Out of 164 patients, both groups had similar rates of complications within 30 days after surgery—6.0% for the delayed group and 6.5% for the neonatal group, indicating that both surgical timings are safe. This matters because it shows that doctors can choose either approach based on the individual patient's situation without worrying about a higher risk of complications. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and surgeons making decisions for newborns with these conditions.

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This study looked at how adults with sickle cell disease and their caregivers feel about using a mobile app to help manage the condition. Forty-three people took part in listening sessions, where they shared their thoughts on current self-care methods, challenges they face, and what features they would want in an app. The results showed that participants were generally open to using an app, highlighting the need for better resources, especially for those living in rural areas. Who this helps: This benefits patients with sickle cell disease and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how high-dose radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy treated advanced vulvar cancer in women. Out of 26 patients, 80.7% had a complete response to the treatment, with one-year survival rates at 91% and two-year survival rates at 62%. The findings are significant because they show that this aggressive treatment can effectively control cancer with manageable side effects, although higher doses may lead to more severe toxicity. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced vulvar cancer seeking effective treatment options.

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This study looked at children who experienced a loud nasal sound known as nasal rustle when they spoke. Researchers found that this sound is linked to bubbling secretions at a small opening in the throat and that the bubbling happens in a consistent way. Specifically, they noted that the bubbling frequency matched the sound produced in the nose, showing it contributes significantly to the nasal rustle. Who this helps: This helps speech therapists and doctors working with children who have speech challenges related to nasal sounds.

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This study looked at the differences between children born with isolated anorectal malformation (ARM) and those with ARM who also have urinary system problems. Researchers found that 27% of the children with ARM and related urinary issues were born prematurely, compared to only 14% of those with isolated ARM. Understanding this link is important because it helps doctors and parents be aware of the higher risk of premature birth in children with these combined conditions. Who this helps: Parents of children with anorectal malformations.

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This study looked at how listening to favorite music affects brain function in adults with Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia. Researchers found that after participants listened to their preferred music, there was an increase in brain activity in areas associated with memory and improved connections between different brain networks. This matters because it shows that personalized music can temporarily enhance brain function and potentially help manage some symptoms of dementia. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.

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The study looked at how patient navigators can help children and youth with developmental and mental health issues access the care and support they need. It found that these programs can connect families to social services and clinical care, which is especially important for those living in poverty or new to the area. This matters because improving access to these services can lead to better health outcomes for these vulnerable groups. Who this helps: This helps children and youth with developmental and mental health conditions and their families.

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This research focused on how to manage bowel issues, specifically soiling, in children who have had surgery for Hirschsprung disease. The study reviewed existing information and expert opinions, highlighting that problems can stem from issues like feeling the urge to go or controlling bowel movements. The proposed guidelines offer a clear step-by-step plan to help doctors diagnose and treat these issues effectively, which can improve the quality of life for affected children. Who this helps: This benefits children with Hirschsprung disease and their families.

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This study looked at whether continuing to take folic acid during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy helps improve children's thinking and learning skills. Children of mothers who took folic acid scored better on cognitive tests at ages 3 and 7. Specifically, at age 7, they scored an average of 13.3 in word reasoning compared to 11.9 for those whose mothers didn't take folic acid, and at age 3, their average cognitive score was 10.3 versus 9.5 for the other group. This is important because it suggests that folic acid might not only prevent birth defects but also support better brain development in children. Who this helps: Patients and expectant mothers.

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This study examined how changes to the process of ordering blood products can help reduce mistakes, especially for children in hospitals. Researchers first made some adjustments to the original ordering system, then tested it with healthcare providers, leading to even more improvements. They found that when using the new design, the error-free completion rate for orders increased from 36% to 66%, meaning clinicians made significantly fewer mistakes when ordering blood for pediatric patients. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients and healthcare providers by improving the safety and accuracy of blood product ordering.

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This study looked at how blood loss during surgery affects the monitoring of spinal cord function in pigs, specifically using a test called TcMEP. Researchers found that as blood volume decreased, TcMEP readings dropped significantly—by an average of 73% in one muscle group and 62% in another—and the levels of the anesthetic propofol in the blood increased from about 1190 ng/mL to 2483 ng/mL. This matters because it shows that lower blood volume can lead to misleading results in spinal cord monitoring, making it essential for doctors to be aware of how blood loss can affect anesthesia during surgery. Who this helps: This information benefits surgeons and anesthesiologists during spine surgeries.

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This paper corrects a previous research article about how brain activity changes during bleeding and relates to the levels of propofol, a medication used for anesthesia. The revised authorship lists a co-author who was mistakenly left out in the first version of the study. This matter is important because accurate authorship gives proper credit and transparency to the researchers involved. Who this helps: This helps researchers and readers who rely on correct information in scientific publications.

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This study looked at how measuring oxygen levels in tissues can help doctors better understand and treat patients, especially during emergencies like brain injuries. It found that while tools like near-infrared spectroscopy show promise for assessing oxygen in areas like the brain and muscles, more research is needed to determine how these measurements can be used to improve health outcomes, including survival rates and recovery times. This matters because better monitoring of tissue oxygen could lead to more tailored treatments for patients, ultimately improving their chances of recovery. Who this helps: Patients with critical conditions who need better monitoring and treatment options.

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This study looked at how certain protein complexes in yeast, specifically NuA4, help cells form stress granules when they lack glucose. The researchers found that mutants lacking NuA4 have higher levels of a molecule called acetyl-CoA, which actually slows down stress granule formation, while reducing acetyl-CoA levels enhances their formation. Understanding how these processes work is important because it provides insights into how cells respond to nutrient stress, which could have implications for conditions like cancer. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors studying cell stress responses and cancer treatments.

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This study looked at how yeast cells distribute their cellular structures, specifically spindle pole bodies (SPBs), during division based on their age. Researchers found that two proteins, Swe1 and Kin3, work together to mark older SPBs so that they are passed to the daughter cell (the bud), while newer SPBs remain in the mother cell. Understanding this process is important because it reveals how cells manage their resources effectively, which could inform research on similar processes in other organisms. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying cell division and aging in various organisms.

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This study looked at how the antidepressant fluoxetine, found in water, affects the behavior of crabs living in estuaries when they face predators. Researchers exposed crabs to different levels of fluoxetine over 60 days and found that those exposed to the drug were more active and foraged more during the day, which is unusual since crabs typically hide from predators then. This means that the presence of fluoxetine in water can disrupt how these crabs balance the need for food with the danger of being eaten, which can have significant effects on the aquatic ecosystem. Who this helps: This information benefits environmental scientists and water quality managers who are concerned about the impact of pharmaceuticals on marine life.

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This study looked at how to care for children who had surgery for appendicitis that wasn't ruptured, aiming to improve their hospital stay and reduce costs. After introducing a new protocol, the average hospital stay dropped from 40.1 hours to 23.5 hours, and patient care costs decreased from $5,783 to $4,499, without increasing the rate of complications or readmissions. This change is important because it means children can recover at home sooner and families pay less for their care. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their families by reducing hospital time and costs.

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This study looked at how using a standardized approach to surgery for appendicitis in children could lower costs and improve efficiency. By having all six surgeons at a children's hospital follow the same procedures, the cost of supplies used during surgery dropped from $844 to $305 per patient, with surgeries taking a similar amount of time (about 37 minutes). This is important because it shows that hospitals can save money while maintaining quality care for kids who need appendectomies. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by reducing healthcare costs and ensuring consistent care.

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This study looked at how tears in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), a common knee injury among athletes, can lead to osteoarthritis (OA) later on. Researchers found that even after surgical reconstruction of the ACL, the risk of developing OA remains higher than normal, and factors like the choice of graft for surgery and the presence of other knee injuries can affect this risk. This matters because it shows that simply fixing the ACL isn’t enough to prevent arthritis in the knee, highlighting the importance of additional preventive measures. Who this helps: This helps patients who have had an ACL injury and their doctors in planning better long-term care.

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This study looked at how hematologists and hospitalists manage pain for patients with sickle cell disease who are in the hospital for pain crises. Researchers reviewed the care of 298 adult patients and found that those cared for by hospitalists had shorter hospital stays (8.4 days compared to 10 days) and used less continuous pain medication. These differences matter because they highlight how care approaches can impact patient comfort and recovery time. Who this helps: This helps patients with sickle cell disease by potentially improving their pain management and reducing hospital stays.

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This study looked at how pediatric simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection affects the brains of newborn rhesus macaques, specifically focusing on the hippocampus, which is important for memory and learning. Researchers found a 42% decrease in certain brain cells called pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus of SIV-infected monkeys compared to those that were not infected. This loss of brain cells may help explain why children with HIV can experience quick declines in their cognitive abilities. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children living with HIV, by highlighting the need for targeted treatments to protect brain health.

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This study looked at a new approach for treating children with ruptured appendicitis, focusing on how doctors could shorten hospital stays and reduce costs by tailoring antibiotic treatment to how well the patient was doing. With the new method, the average hospital stay dropped from about 134 hours to 94.5 hours, and the cost per patient decreased from $13,610 to $9,870. This finding is significant because it shows that a response-based treatment can effectively lower both the time spent in the hospital and the overall healthcare costs without increasing risks for patients. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients and their families by providing quicker, more affordable care.

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This study looked at how screening and preventive surgery for a condition called malrotation affect infants with Heterotaxy Syndrome, a rare congenital condition. Researchers reviewed records of Heterotaxy patients who underwent a specific surgery (the Ladd procedure) and found that these patients had a higher risk of death within 30 days compared to those without Heterotaxy. They also discovered that many patients who didn't have the surgery were not at significant risk for serious complications, suggesting that routine screening for malrotation in these patients might not be necessary. Who this helps: This benefits medical teams and patients with Heterotaxy Syndrome by informing better management practices.

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This study focused on understanding microRNAs (miRNAs) in flax plants, identifying 116 different miRNAs that help control gene activity and influence plant growth. Researchers found that most of these miRNAs are 21 nucleotides long and are linked to 142 target genes, which are mainly involved in regulating transcription. This research is important because it highlights how these miRNAs could be essential for the growth and development of flax, a valuable crop. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists working to improve flax cultivation.

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This study looked at how people's past experiences and exposure to art influence their understanding and appreciation of it. The researchers found that understanding art involves more than just knowing the artist's intentions; it’s also about how viewers connect with the artwork based on their own experiences. This matters because it shifts the way we think about teaching and engaging with art, suggesting that personal connection is key. Who this helps: This helps art teachers, students, and anyone interested in deeper engagement with art.

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This study looked at the quality of life for children suffering from long-term pancreatitis and found that these kids experience significantly lower health-related quality of life and higher fatigue compared to healthy children. Specifically, both children and their parents reported that fatigue negatively impacted their overall well-being. This is important because it highlights the need for more research to find ways to improve the lives of these young patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with pancreatitis and their families.

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This study looked at how pregnancy affects the anesthesia used during Cesarean deliveries. It found that using spinal or epidural anesthesia instead of general anesthesia has made the procedure safer for mothers, reducing risks like aspiration and low blood pressure. Overall, these advances in anesthesia techniques have led to better outcomes for mothers during and after surgery. Who this helps: This helps mothers undergoing Cesarean deliveries and their healthcare providers.

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In this study, researchers looked at how a treatment called ECMO (a machine that helps support lung function) could help children who suffered severe injuries and were having trouble breathing. They treated three seriously injured children over two years and found that using ECMO helped them recover, indicating it may be a safe and effective option for similar cases. This matters because it offers a potential lifesaving treatment for young patients with serious lung injuries. Who this helps: This helps children with severe injuries and their doctors managing their care.

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This study looked at a serious birth defect called congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), which affects the diaphragm in newborns and often leads to high mortality rates. Researchers analyzed data from families with many cases of isolated CDH and found three new chromosome regions linked to the condition, along with two regions already known to be associated. This is important because it enhances our understanding of the genetic factors behind CDH and could lead to better diagnosis and treatment options for affected families. Who this helps: This helps patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and their families.

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This study looked at the use of a special treatment called extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (EC-CPR) for children who suffered cardiac arrests due to severe hypothermia, like from drowning or avalanches. Out of nine children treated, two survived and were healthy when they left the hospital, resulting in an overall survival rate of 22%, which is lower than previous reports. This is important because it highlights that while some children can be saved from these life-threatening situations, the chances of survival may not be as high as earlier believed. Who this helps: This helps children who experience cardiac arrest due to severe cold exposure and their families.

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Researchers studied how endothelial cells made from human stem cells could help improve blood flow in mice with peripheral artery disease. They found that injecting these cells into mice led to a 31% increase in blood flow compared to mice that received a saline solution, and the number of capillaries in the treated mice was 61% higher. This is important because it suggests a new way to regenerate blood vessels in patients with poor circulation. Who this helps: This benefits patients with peripheral artery disease.