DR. MICHAEL HUNTER RYAN, MD

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This research looked at how pharmacists use videos to educate patients about their health. The review analyzed 37 studies and found that when patients had access to videos from home, the effectiveness of education increased significantly—46% of patients benefited compared to just 21% who received standard care. Moreover, patients reported higher satisfaction and better understanding of their medications. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing them with more effective educational resources.

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This study looked at how mental health professionals in UK emergency departments assess the risk of suicide in patients who are feeling suicidal or have harmed themselves. Researchers interviewed 22 professionals and found that they face significant challenges, including feeling unsure about their assessments, dealing with the complex nature of risk, and facing institutional pressures that make it hard to provide the support patients need. Improving the support for these professionals is crucial because it helps them connect better with patients and ensures safer, more effective assessments. Who this helps: This helps mental health professionals and the patients they assess.

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This study looked at 18 young patients, mostly males with an average age of 20, who developed nerve and spinal cord problems from using too much nitrous oxide, a gas often used for recreational purposes. The most common symptoms were tingling sensations in the limbs (experienced by 15 patients), weakness in the limbs (13 patients), and difficulty walking (8 patients). Many of these patients had low levels of vitamin B12, and some showed unusual changes in their spinal cord on MRI scans, highlighting that nitrous oxide abuse can lead to serious health issues. Who this helps: This information helps health care providers understand the risks of nitrous oxide use and improve care for affected patients.

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The EPITUBE trial studied whether giving patients a continuous infusion of norepinephrine before they undergo heart surgery would lower the risk of severe drops in blood pressure after they were put under anesthesia. The results showed that using norepinephrine didn't significantly reduce severe hypotension; 43.8% of patients on norepinephrine experienced it compared to 44.8% on the control treatment. However, those on norepinephrine had a lower rate of slightly less severe hypotension (63.8% vs. 78.1%), suggesting it can help manage blood pressure to a certain extent without major complications during the procedure. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing cardiac surgery by providing better blood pressure management options.

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This study examined two rare cases of cervical cancer in women aged 29 and 55, where a specific type of cancer (mesonephric adenocarcinoma) transformed into a more aggressive form (high-grade undifferentiated carcinoma). Both cases showed changes at the genetic level, with harmful mutations found in genes linked to cancer development. These findings are important because they highlight a new way this type of cancer can behave, which may lead to faster growth and spread. Who this helps: This helps doctors better understand and treat aggressive cervical cancers.

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This study looked at how guidelines for healthcare are developed in Ireland by interviewing 14 people involved in the process, including doctors and managers. Researchers found that strong personalities and existing hierarchies often caused some voices, particularly those of patients, to be overlooked during discussions, which can affect the quality of recommendations made. The findings matter because they reveal the need for better balance in discussions to ensure that all perspectives, especially patient needs, are considered in healthcare decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients, doctors, and those involved in creating clinical guidelines.

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This study examined how certain factors influence the effectiveness of a treatment called graded sensorimotor retraining for people with chronic low back pain (LBP). The researchers found that after one year, individuals with a poor perception of their back had a notable decrease in pain intensity, with a score increase of 0.18 on a scale from 0 to 10, meaning they experienced more relief. This is important because it shows that the treatment can help, especially for those who may feel more negative about their back condition. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic low back pain.

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This research focused on improving the detection of a specific type of heart failure called heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which affects a large number of people, particularly those from non-White backgrounds. The study developed a new diagnostic tool called AIM-HFpEF, which uses advanced computer techniques to analyze health records and accurately identify HFpEF patients. It showed strong performance, with an accuracy rate of about 88% in predicting HFpEF cases, and was especially effective for non-White patients and those from economically disadvantaged areas. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for HFpEF, particularly from diverse ethnic backgrounds and low-income communities.

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This study looked at different types of magnesium supplements to see how well they are absorbed by the body and how they affect certain genes related to magnesium transport. The researchers found that Aquamin Mg Soluble, derived from seawater, had significantly better absorption than magnesium bisglycinate when digested with food, showing a higher bioavailability (statistically significant at 0.016). This is important because it means that using Aquamin can effectively increase magnesium levels in the body, which is vital for many health processes. Who this helps: This helps patients who need magnesium supplements for various health issues.

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This study looked at a quick psychological support program called ASSURED for adults who have harmed themselves or thought about suicide when they visit emergency departments in the UK. Researchers tested the program against standard care for 620 patients, measuring things like whether participants returned to the emergency department or received mental health referrals over 18 months. The results could enhance treatment options for a vulnerable group, which is crucial since self-harm is a strong predictor of suicide. Who this helps: This benefits patients who self-harm and their families.

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This study looked at how a heart procedure called coronary revascularization affects heart rhythm problems in patients with weak hearts. Out of 30 patients, their heart pumping ability improved by 8%, and the amount of damage from reduced blood flow decreased by 34% after the procedure. However, the electrical activity linked to heart rhythms didn't show significant overall change, indicating that while the ischemia reduced, it didn't consistently improve the risk of arrhythmia for every patient. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe heart issues and their doctors by providing insights into their treatment options.

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This study focused on training kidney specialists, called nephrologists, to improve their confidence in involving patients in decision-making about their treatment, especially when discussing options beyond dialysis. After three virtual training sessions with 80 nephrology clinicians, their confidence levels increased significantly, with an average rise of 1 to 2 points on a 7-point scale for most learning goals. This increase indicates that better communication and decision-making practices can enhance care quality for patients with kidney disease. Who this helps: Patients with chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.

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This study focused on improving how researchers evaluate the quality of evidence in reviews of diagnostic tests, specifically a new imaging technique for staging prostate cancer. The team developed a straightforward method based on existing guidelines, which involved careful consideration of potential biases in both the original studies and the reviews themselves. This new approach helps provide clearer summaries of evidence, making it easier to trust conclusions from complex reviews. Who this helps: This helps researchers and health professionals working on diagnostic tests and treatment for prostate cancer.

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This study looked at 203 rapid health technology assessments (HTAs) to understand what types of information they included and how they were created. The key findings showed that nearly all reports focused on clinical effectiveness (99%) and safety (82%), but fewer addressed legal aspects (12%) or budget impacts (11%). Understanding the variations in these reports is important because it helps create clearer guidelines for how future rapid HTAs should be conducted and reported. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare decision-makers and policymakers.

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This study looked at how well a text-mining tool called PubReMiner performs in finding relevant medical research compared to traditional search methods used by librarians. While the tool was generally quicker to use, it wasn't always as effective; for instance, in one review, PubReMiner found 83.87% of relevant studies compared to only 58.06% with the traditional method. Overall, although PubReMiner can save time, its mixed results mean it shouldn’t fully replace the established search methods. Who this helps: This helps librarians and researchers looking for the best ways to find and analyze medical research.

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This study looked at patients with mixed aortic valve disease, which includes both narrowing and leakage of the heart valve. It found that about 74% of these patients showed symptoms like heart failure or chest pain, and those with symptoms had a 48% higher risk of dying compared to those without symptoms. They also spent an average of $11,120 more on healthcare each year. These findings highlight the importance of early detection and treatment to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with mixed aortic valve disease, their families, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how patients with prostate cancer and healthcare professionals view different treatment options, especially regarding the balance between extending life and managing side effects. It found that both groups prioritize treatments that improve survival, but patients are more concerned about safety issues like falls and heart problems, especially in advanced stages of the disease. For earlier-stage treatments, patients worry more about short-term effects, while doctors focus on overall tolerability. Who this helps: This research benefits prostate cancer patients and their doctors by providing insights into their treatment preferences.

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This study examined a method for controlling mosquito populations that can spread diseases like dengue and Japanese encephalitis. Researchers found that for this control method to be effective, at least 40% of the targeted mating between mosquito strains must happen, although this needs further testing. The results show that this method could be reversed if not enough wild mosquitoes enter the area, offering a better way to manage these disease-carrying insects. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and communities affected by mosquito-borne diseases.

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This study compared two diets for treating liver fat in people with a specific liver condition called MASLD. Participants on the very low energy ketogenic diet (VLED) lost an average of 13% of their body weight and saw a 77% reduction in liver fat after 12 weeks, while those on the Mediterranean diet only lost 4% of their weight and reduced liver fat by 14%. This matters because effective weight loss can significantly improve liver health, especially in individuals who are overweight or obese. Who this helps: Patients with MASLD and obesity.

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This study looked at the outcomes of 1,029 children with blunt liver and spleen injuries, following specific medical guidelines for treatment. Researchers found that 69% of these children showed no significant signs of bleeding when they arrived at the hospital and did not need surgery, while a small group who did show signs of bleeding faced higher risks, with a 3.4% overall mortality rate. Transfusions greater than 40 mL/kg made survival without surgery unlikely, as 21% of those patients died. Who this helps: This research helps doctors better understand how to treat children with blunt liver and spleen injuries.

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This research paper is focused on how new graduate nurses use digital health technologies as they begin their careers. The authors plan to review existing studies from 2020 to 2026 to understand what challenges and experiences these nurses face with these technologies. They believe that their findings will help improve nursing education and support systems, which is essential for providing better care to patients. Who this helps: This helps new graduate nurses and their employers in healthcare settings.

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This study looked at whether using a special pump to help the heart during complex procedures in patients with severely weak heart function improves their chances of a good outcome. Researchers randomly assigned 300 patients to either receive this pump or standard care during their treatment. After about 22 months, the study found that using the pump did not significantly reduce the risk of serious problems like death or heart attacks compared to standard care, with 47 deaths in the pump group versus 33 in the standard group. Who this helps: This research informs doctors and healthcare providers who care for patients with heart issues about the effectiveness of using the pump during risky procedures.

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This study focused on patients who had surgery for facial injuries and looked at why some of them failed to return for follow-up appointments within 90 days after leaving the hospital. It found that 24.7% of these patients did not attend their follow-up visits, and those living in more deprived neighborhoods were about twice as likely to miss these appointments compared to those in better-off areas. Understanding this connection is important because it highlights the need for targeted support to help patients from disadvantaged backgrounds access the care they need. Who this helps: This research benefits patients recovering from facial trauma and healthcare providers looking to improve follow-up care.

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This research paper looks at the different types of weapons animals use to compete with each other, like electric shocks, sounds, venom, and physical strikes. The study found that existing research has mostly focused on just one type of weapon, which makes it hard to understand why so many different kinds have evolved. By bringing together various research findings, the paper suggests new directions for studying these weapons and their role in evolution. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying animal behavior and evolution.

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This study looked at how domestic violence support services in Ireland are provided to minority ethnic women. Researchers found that these women face unique challenges that make it harder for support services to meet their needs. For example, issues related to culture and systemic barriers prevent effective support, which can leave these women feeling underserved and isolated. Who this helps: This helps minority ethnic women who are survivors of domestic violence.

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This study explored whether therapeutic ultrasound could boost the release of two important hormones from the thyroid gland: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Researchers used thyroid tissue from rats and applied ultrasound at different frequencies but found no increase in the release of T4 or T3; the hormone levels remained the same as untreated samples. This is important because it indicates that the ultrasound therapy tested is not effective for enhancing thyroid hormone release as it was for insulin release in other studies. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors and researchers exploring new treatments for thyroid-related issues.

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This study focused on improving a method for medical imaging and sensing using special nanoparticles that emit light in the near-infrared range. Researchers found that by combining these nanoparticles with a new type of silver structure, they could amplify the light output by up to 210 times, significantly improving the clarity and sensitivity of the images. This is important because it allows for deeper tissue imaging with less background noise, making it easier and more effective to detect and analyze biological signals. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors involved in medical imaging and diagnostics.

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This study looked at a fast-track medical program that allows students to graduate in three years instead of the usual four. At Virginia Commonwealth University, 61% of the students in this program graduated early while showing strong skills, with nearly all achieving 'competent' ratings in key areas. This matters because it addresses the shortage of doctors and helps reduce student debt without compromising the quality of training. Who this helps: Patients and the healthcare system benefit from having more qualified doctors ready to work sooner.

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This study looked at the opinions of kidney care nurses about whether older patients should be placed on dialysis. In 2025, they found that 19.4% of patients aged 65 and older shouldn't receive dialysis, an increase from 15.0% in 1996. Additionally, one-third of the nurses reported feeling very distressed about these decisions, highlighting the need for more conversations about the best treatment for older patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers make better decisions regarding dialysis for older adults.

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This study looked at what dietetic students think about the new requirement for a graduate degree to become registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs). Out of 603 students surveyed, 94% said they plan to pursue the RDN credential, with many expressing both support and concerns about the new requirements, particularly regarding costs and time commitment. Understanding these views is important for educators and policymakers to address student concerns and improve the dietetics field. Who this helps: This helps dietetic students and educational institutions.

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People with intellectual and developmental disabilities often show challenging behaviors specifically when transitioning between activities, and this meta-analysis reviewed 19 experiments testing interventions for this problem. Consequence-based approaches — such as reinforcing calm transitions — produced larger reductions in challenging behavior than strategies relying on advance warning signals like visual schedules. Overall treatment effects across all studies were not statistically significant, highlighting a need for larger and more rigorous research in this area.

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This study looked at the psychological struggles of people living with multiple myeloma, a serious and incurable blood cancer, and its earlier stage, smoldering myeloma. It found that patients experience high levels of anxiety and depression, often reporting a lower quality of life than those with other cancers. Current support options are lacking and generally ineffective, often failing to consider the full range of needs, including physical pain and emotional well-being, and they rarely include support for caregivers. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple myeloma and their caregivers by highlighting the need for better psychological support.

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This research looked at how different countries in Europe handle the approval and funding of high-risk medical devices and diagnostic tests. Out of 34 countries studied, 23 use Health Technology Assessment (HTA) to guide reimbursement decisions, but only 11 have a formal process in place. These variations can impact patient access to essential medical technologies, making it important to understand and improve these systems. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need access to high-risk medical devices and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how social vulnerability in communities affects rates of child physical abuse at a major trauma center over seven years. Researchers found that children from the most vulnerable areas were significantly more likely to be investigated for physical abuse, with a 28.6% increase in the odds during the pandemic compared to before (going from 1.4 to 1.8). This finding shows that children living in disadvantaged situations are at higher risk for abuse, especially during crises like the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps children and families in vulnerable communities by highlighting the need for targeted support and intervention.

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This study looked at a common heart problem called ischemic left ventricular dysfunction (iLVD), which often leads to heart failure. Researchers found that coronary revascularization (surgery to improve blood flow to the heart) is still helpful for specific patients with iLVD, even though recent tests raised questions about its routine use. Understanding who benefits from these procedures can help improve treatment options and outcomes for patients suffering from this condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with ischemic left ventricular dysfunction and their doctors.

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This study examines chronic pain not just as a physical issue but as a problem related to how people perceive themselves. Researchers found that when someone experiences chronic pain, they often feel disconnected from their own identity, which can make the pain worse and harder to cope with. Improving treatments by focusing on this disconnection and helping patients create a narrative around their pain could lead to better management and relief. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with chronic pain and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how much people are willing to pay for exome sequencing (a type of genetic test) when diagnosing rare diseases. Researchers found that at least half the users would find costs up to CAD $10,000 reasonable if the test has at least a 50% chance of providing a diagnosis. This information is important for setting fair prices and making these tests more accessible to patients who need them. Who this helps: Patients with rare diseases and their families.

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This study looked at how often doctors check implanted heart devices after a person has died to figure out why they may have died suddenly. Out of 173 hospitals surveyed in the UK, only 15 performed these checks regularly, and even fewer documented the findings properly. This matters because one in twenty deaths in hospitals involve patients with these devices, and understanding their function can provide crucial information about the cause of death. Who this helps: This helps patients' families and doctors who want clarity on sudden deaths related to heart devices.

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This research paper explores how the economic factors behind artificial intelligence (AI) influence its ethical considerations. The authors find that integrating economic aspects into the framework for ethical AI—specifically within areas like community involvement and forward-thinking planning—can enhance AI's responsible use. This is important because it helps clarify how AI technologies can be developed and implemented in a way that considers both their impact and the investment interests of tech companies. Who this helps: This benefits policymakers, AI developers, and society at large by fostering better AI practices.

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This study looked at how to better assess hearts from donors for heart transplants in the UK. The researchers created new guidelines to improve how these hearts are evaluated, including a standardized way to take images of donor hearts. By using these guidelines, the hope is to increase the number of usable donor hearts, which is crucial for patients needing transplants. Who this helps: This benefits patients waiting for heart transplants.

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This study looks at how people recover from mental health issues using a concept called CHIME, which stands for Connection, Hope, Identity, Meaning, and Empowerment. The researchers found that while many studies have looked at these elements, few have examined how they work together in real life to support recovery. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial because it can help improve mental health treatments and support systems. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from mental health challenges and the professionals supporting them.

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This study explored the potential of a new U.S.-ASEAN Consortium for Pharmacy Education, inspired by a successful partnership between the U.S. and Thailand. Twelve faculty members from nine ASEAN countries and the U.S. discussed their views, and key findings included the need for strategic networking, addressing challenges like curriculum differences and financial issues, and enhancing student experiences through shared programs. By improving international collaboration in pharmacy education, this effort aims to benefit both students and educational institutions across Southeast Asia. Who this helps: This helps students and pharmacy schools in ASEAN countries.

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This study looked at the brains and mental health of people who had lingering symptoms after COVID-19, known as Post-COVID Condition (PCC), compared to healthy individuals. Researchers found that at around 8 months after infection, people with PCC had larger brain areas, particularly the putamen and amygdala, and showed more anxiety, depression, and pain. By roughly three years later, while differences in brain structure mostly decreased, PCC individuals still reported higher levels of sadness, fear, and fatigue, suggesting ongoing challenges despite some improvement. Who this helps: This study benefits patients dealing with long-term COVID symptoms and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how health technology assessment (HTA) organizations in Europe are getting ready for new rules regarding high-risk medical devices starting in 2026. Researchers interviewed 15 people from 11 different HTA bodies, and they found that while there is a strong interest in using joint clinical assessments (JCAs) to improve the quality of evidence for these devices, many organizations are still waiting for clearer guidelines to move forward. The study highlights that while there are benefits like sharing resources and strengthening evidence standards, there are also challenges like uncertainty in regulations and a lack of readiness from manufacturers. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by ensuring better evaluations of high-risk medical devices.

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This research study looks at how effective mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is for people with difficult-to-treat depression, a condition that 30% of depressed patients experience despite ongoing treatment. The researchers plan to analyze data from multiple trials to assess how well MBCT helps reduce depression symptoms, achieve remission, and produce meaningful improvements. The findings will help decide whether MBCT should be recommended as a treatment for this specific patient group. Who this helps: Patients with difficult-to-treat depression.

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This study explored the Recovery Experience Forum of Carers and Users of Services (REFOCUS) in Ireland, looking at how it impacts people involved in mental health care, including service users and their families. Out of 14 participants, seven shared their experiences, leading to the identification of five key themes that highlighted both positive outcomes, like increased meaning in individuals' lives and peer support, as well as ongoing issues such as stigma. Understanding these experiences is crucial for improving mental health services and support systems for everyone involved. Who this helps: This benefits patients, their families, and mental health care providers.

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This study looked at how patients with back pain and general practitioners (GPs) view digital tools that help with decision-making in managing back pain. Researchers gathered opinions from 23 people, including 13 patients and 10 GPs. They found that while patients liked these tools for improving their understanding and preparing for appointments, GPs valued them for saving time and monitoring symptoms; however, both groups were concerned about the accuracy of the information and the costs involved. Who this helps: Patients with back pain and their doctors benefit from better communication and decision-making during healthcare visits.

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This review studied the cancer risks associated with nicotine-based e-cigarettes by examining various types of research, including human case reports and laboratory tests. The findings showed that e-cigarette use can lead to DNA damage and other harmful effects, with evidence pointing to an increased risk of lung and oral cancers. Specifically, certain chemicals in e-cigarettes were linked to tumor development, and studies suggested a rising concern about their carcinogenic potential over the years. Who this helps: This information benefits patients who use e-cigarettes and healthcare providers concerned about cancer risks.

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This study explored how "trauma-informed care" (TIC) is being applied in low- and middle-income countries. Researchers reviewed 3,091 studies and found 255 relevant ones from 39 countries, showing that about 90% of the TIC efforts were in medical settings and 69% focused on cultural, historical, and gender issues. This matters because it highlights the need for better understanding and implementation of TIC principles globally, ensuring that care is more supportive and effective for trauma survivors. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and healthcare providers in low- and middle-income countries.