DR. PAOLA REESE BASS, MD

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This study looked at the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among female sex workers in The Gambia, focusing on their experiences with violence and social support. It found that 71.8% of the participants had experienced an STI, and 69.2% reported experiencing violence. Surprisingly, the study showed that higher perceived social support was linked to an increased risk of STIs, while experiencing contact violence was a strong predictor of STI occurrence. Who this helps: This research benefits female sex workers, health care providers, and policymakers by highlighting the need for better support and protective measures against violence and STIs.

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This study looked at how often female sex workers in The Gambia used contraception consistently, which is important for preventing sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies. The researchers found that only about 23% of the women reported using contraception regularly, and the most common method was male condoms. Factors that increased consistent use included having a boyfriend, getting contraceptives from specific organizations, and previous use of contraceptives, while a negative attitude from boyfriends significantly decreased usage. Who this helps: This information benefits female sex workers and public health officials looking to improve reproductive health services.

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This study examined the presence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in a hospital's environment and compared it to VRE found in patients with bloodstream infections. Researchers found that the hospital environment was a major source of VRE, with about 33% of transmission links coming from the environment to patients. This is important because it highlights the need for improved cleaning and infection control measures in hospitals to reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Who this helps: This helps patients and hospital staff by reducing the risk of infections.

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This research studied the spread of a specific type of drug-resistant bacteria, known as New Delhi metallo-β-lactamases (NDMs), at a hospital in Australia from 2016 to 2021. The researchers found that the number of patients infected with NDMs increased significantly, especially from 2019 to 2021, with only 29% of these patients having traveled internationally before their infection. Notably, the death rate from NDM infections was 14% within 30 days for those affected. This study highlights the importance of understanding how drug-resistant bacteria spread locally in health care settings, which can help improve infection control measures. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by informing better strategies to prevent and manage infections.

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This study looked at how much Gambian women know about the risk factors and symptoms of high blood pressure (hypertension). Out of nearly 12,000 women surveyed, only about 35% knew at least one risk factor and 37% understood at least one symptom of hypertension. The research found that women with no education or who did not use the internet or watch television were less likely to know about hypertension, indicating a strong link between education, access to information, and awareness of health issues. Who this helps: This information benefits Gambian women and health educators working to improve awareness about hypertension and its risks.

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This study looked at how patients and healthcare workers understand and cope with multidrug-resistant organisms (MROs) in hospitals, such as certain bacteria that are difficult to treat. It found that both patients and staff feel uncertain about these organisms, with many patients unclear on their condition due to insufficient explanations from healthcare workers. Additionally, the study revealed that while patients generally felt they received good care, they thought staff sometimes didn't follow protocols for isolation properly, indicating a need for better communication and education about MROs. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare workers improve their understanding and management of infections in healthcare settings.

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This study looked at injuries among building construction workers in The Gambia, finding that over 56% reported being injured at work in the past year. The most common injuries were cuts and abrasions, with certain factors like being male, working fewer than 8 hours a day, and using tobacco linked to higher injury rates. Understanding these issues can lead to better safety policies that protect workers in this field. Who this helps: This information benefits construction workers and workplace safety regulators.

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This study looked at how warming temperatures in the Arctic are changing plant life and ecosystems, using data from two areas in Svalbard over 20 years. Researchers collected information on nearly 2,000 plants and their traits, finding that these plants and the ecosystems they inhabit are being affected by the warmer climate and nutrients from seabirds. This research is important because it helps us understand how climate change impacts the environment, which is essential for protecting these fragile ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps conservationists and environmental managers working to protect Arctic ecosystems.

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This research focused on when to best schedule hip or knee replacement surgery for patients with serious osteoarthritis or osteonecrosis who have not found relief from non-surgical treatments. The findings suggest that patients should not delay surgery to try more non-surgical options, but may benefit from delaying if they need to stop smoking or improve blood sugar levels if they have diabetes. Obesity shouldn't delay surgery, but losing weight is encouraged due to its potential impact on surgery risks. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from chronic joint pain and their doctors by providing clear guidelines on when to proceed with surgery.

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This study aimed to determine the best timing for hip or knee surgery in patients with severe arthritis or certain advanced joint problems who have not found relief from non-surgical treatments. The researchers found that delaying surgery to try more non-surgical options was not recommended, while delaying for reasons like reducing nicotine use or improving diabetes management could be helpful. This matters because timely surgery can lead to better pain relief and improved functioning in patients over the following year. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from severe joint pain who are considering surgery to improve their quality of life.

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This study looked at the best timing for hip or knee surgeries in patients with severe arthritis or joint issues who didn't get better with other treatments. The experts recommended not to delay surgery to try more non-surgical treatments, but they did suggest waiting if patients need to quit smoking or manage diabetes better. The panel also emphasized that while obesity shouldn't delay surgery, weight loss is important and should be encouraged. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe joint pain or problems who are considering surgery for relief.

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This research studied how two treatments—Kinesio taping and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation—combined with active stretching could improve hamstring flexibility in soccer players suffering from short hamstring syndrome. After four weeks of treatment, players using Kinesio taping showed a flexibility increase of 14.9 to 22.4 degrees, while those using electrical stimulation also improved by 14.9 to 22.3 degrees, both significantly more than those only doing active stretching, which improved by 9.5 to 18.4 degrees. This is important because it means that adding these two techniques can enhance flexibility better than stretching alone, potentially helping athletes perform better and avoid injuries. Who this helps: This benefits athletes, particularly soccer players, who struggle with hamstring issues.

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The study looked at how COVID-19 spread among healthcare workers in Victoria, Australia, from March to October 2020, analyzing over 1,240 cases and successfully sequencing the genomes of 612 infections (about 80%). Researchers found that most infections in healthcare facilities came from multiple sources of the virus rather than just one, with factors like staff and patient movement contributing significantly to the spread. Understanding these dynamics and the patterns of infection helps healthcare systems prepare better for future pandemics. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare workers and hospital administrators by enhancing safety measures.

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This study examined the reasons behind repeated incidents of violence against women in The Gambia. Researchers found that women who frequently experienced violent injuries were more likely to have received secondary education, come from polygamous families, and have been raised by a single parent. These findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies to help reduce recurring violence against women. Who this helps: This research benefits women at risk of violence, as well as healthcare providers who care for them.

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This study looked at a surgical method called combined dorsal and ventral rhizotomy to treat patients with mixed hypertonia, which includes conditions like spasticity and dystonia mostly affecting their legs. Out of 7 patients who underwent this surgery, none experienced complications such as infections or nerve damage. This is important because it shows that this surgical option can safely provide lasting relief for patients who haven't improved with other treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from severe muscle stiffness and movement disorders.

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This study looked at a new test involving urinary retinol binding protein (uRBP) to see how well it predicts kidney issues in patients with a disease called systemic AL amyloidosis. Researchers measured uRBP levels in 285 newly diagnosed patients and found that higher levels of uRBP were linked to a much greater risk of developing end-stage kidney disease, with a hazard ratio of 2.65 overall, and even higher risks in certain groups of patients. This matters because it could help doctors identify patients at greater risk for serious kidney problems earlier, allowing for better management and care. Who this helps: Patients with systemic AL amyloidosis, especially those at risk of kidney failure.

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This study looked at a patient who had received a kidney transplant and developed advanced skin cancer known as metastatic melanoma. The patient was treated with pembrolizumab, a type of drug that helps the immune system fight cancer, and they showed great results. Specifically, after the treatment, the patient's cancer improved dramatically while their kidney function remained stable. Who this helps: This benefits kidney transplant recipients with cancer, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the risk factors for injuries caused by physical violence among women in The Gambia. Researchers found that women who are part of the Fula ethnic group, those living in extended family situations, and those with many female siblings are more likely to experience violent injuries. Those who were raised by grandparents or had experienced verbal or physical abuse in the past year also faced higher risks. Addressing these specific factors can help create better prevention programs for violence against women in this region. Who this helps: This information benefits women in The Gambia and healthcare providers working to prevent violence.

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This study looked at a rare condition called karyomegalic interstitial nephritis (KIN) caused by a new mutation in the FAN1 gene, which leads to chronic kidney disease. The researchers presented the case of a 44-year-old woman with advanced kidney disease and her brother, who was on dialysis due to similar issues, but without the additional condition of amyloidosis. Finding this mutation is significant because it shows the importance of assessing less common causes of kidney disease, which can help with treatment options and inform family decisions about health. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic kidney disease and their families.

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This study looked at the rates and causes of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women in The Gambia, surveying over 3,100 married women. They found that more than 40% of the women experienced some form of IPV: 20.6% faced physical violence, 4.3% sexual violence, and 15.1% emotional violence. Factors like being married young, having many children, witnessing parental violence, and partners who drank alcohol were linked to higher rates of IPV, while higher income and living in specific areas made it less likely. Who this helps: This research benefits women in The Gambia and organizations working to reduce domestic violence.

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This study looked at kidney biopsies from women during and after pregnancy to better understand kidney disease that can show up or worsen at this time. Researchers found 63 biopsy reports, with 45 done after pregnancy. Out of these, 34 biopsies investigated ongoing protein in the urine, and 71% revealed new kidney disease, with 18% of those women reaching severe kidney damage later. This is important because it highlights how common new kidney problems can be after childbirth, signaling a need for close monitoring of women's kidney health during and after pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving awareness and care for women at risk of kidney disease after childbirth.

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This study looked at two methods for diagnosing a condition called amyloidosis, which involves the buildup of abnormal protein in tissues. Researchers tested laser dissection mass spectrometry (LDMS) on 640 tissue samples and found that it correctly identified the type of amyloid protein in 80% of cases that traditional methods could not. This matters because LDMS is more accurate than the older method, helping doctors better diagnose and manage patients with amyloidosis. Who this helps: Patients with suspected amyloidosis.

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This study looked at the causes of repeated injuries from violence among men in The Gambia. Researchers found that men from polygamous families, those with more than eight family members, or those raised by relatives were more likely to suffer from recurring injuries, with risks increasing by up to 5.6 times. Additionally, factors like low household income and recent alcohol consumption also raised the risk significantly. Understanding these factors is crucial for creating targeted programs to help prevent future injuries in this population. Who this helps: This helps men in The Gambia at risk of violence, healthcare providers aiding them, and policymakers developing interventions.

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This study focused on a specific genetic mutation in mice that leads to a condition called nephrocalcinosis, which is the buildup of calcium in the kidneys. The researchers discovered a mutation in a gene called BRD4, which causes over 80% of affected mice to develop renal calcification. This finding is important because it provides a new model to better understand kidney diseases related to calcium buildup, which affects around 10% of adults as they age. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors seeking better treatments for patients with kidney calcification disorders.

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This study looked at how being overweight or obese affects the likelihood of women in Malawi having caesarean births. Between 2004 and 2015, the researchers found that overweight women had a 35% higher chance of needing a caesarean delivery, while obese women were more than twice as likely to need one. This is important because it highlights the need for public health efforts in Malawi to help women maintain a healthy weight, especially for those who have had one child and live in urban or northern areas. Who this helps: This benefits women of reproductive age in Malawi, especially those who are overweight or obese.

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A 61-year-old man experienced abdominal pain and kidney failure after treatment with a drug called flucloxacillin. Doctors discovered that a large mass in his abdomen was blocking his kidneys but not causing any swelling, leading to his kidney issues. After placing special tubes to relieve the blockage, he was able to produce urine again and stopped needing dialysis, emphasizing the need to check for certain types of blockages in kidney failure patients, especially when cancer is involved. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from kidney failure due to blockages, particularly those with underlying cancers.

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This study focused on a rare kidney disease called hereditary fibrinogen Aα-chain amyloidosis, which is linked to specific genetic changes in fibrinogen proteins. Researchers analyzed 1,001 patient samples to develop a method for accurately identifying these proteins in amyloid, and they found that their algorithm could reliably identify these proteins in 64 kidney samples. This breakthrough matters because it enhances the accuracy of diagnosing this disease, potentially leading to better patient management and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with hereditary fibrinogen Aα-chain amyloidosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at a type of kidney condition called ALECT2 amyloidosis in 24 patients from the UK National Amyloidosis Centre, finding that it makes up 1.3% of all renal amyloid cases. Most patients were diagnosed at an average age of 62, with a moderate decline in kidney function over time—losing about 4.2 mL/min each year, leading to an average kidney survival of 8.2 years after diagnosis. The findings indicate that ALECT2 amyloidosis is a relatively mild form of renal amyloid that doesn't seem to affect the heart or cause nerve problems, but it is puzzling why it mainly affects non-Caucasian individuals. Who this helps: This information benefits patients diagnosed with ALECT2 amyloidosis and their healthcare providers by providing insights on diagnosis and long-term outcomes.

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This study looked at the link between mothers' anemia and anemia in their young children (aged 6-59 months) in several southern African countries. It found that mothers with anemia were much more likely to have an anemic child, with an increased risk of about 1.7 times in countries like Malawi and Mozambique. This is significant because high rates of anemia in children can lead to serious health issues, highlighting the need for better public health strategies to help both mothers and children in these communities. Who this helps: This research benefits children and their mothers, as well as public health organizations focused on nutrition and healthcare.

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This study looked at how iron behaves in healthy kidneys compared to those with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Researchers found that iron buildup occurred in 33% of kidney samples from CKD patients, especially in those with glomerular dysfunction, while healthy kidneys showed no such buildup. The changes in iron handling in CKD may lead to kidney damage and highlight the importance of proper iron management for kidney health. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with chronic kidney disease and the doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at the risk factors for violent injuries among men in The Gambia. Researchers found that men who were businessmen, earned about $311 a month, had two or more male siblings, drank alcohol in the past week, and had experienced abuse were more likely to get violently injured. Notably, those who were physically abused had more than five times the risk of injury. Understanding these factors is important for creating targeted programs to prevent violence and protect men's health in The Gambia. Who this helps: This helps men in The Gambia who are at risk of violence.

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This research paper looked at how iron is stored and managed in healthy kidneys compared to kidneys affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study found differences in iron levels and handling proteins, which could impact kidney health and function. Understanding these differences is important because it helps in identifying better treatments for CKD and managing patients’ overall health. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic kidney disease and their doctors.

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This study focused on patients with crescentic glomerulonephritis who had anti-GBM antibodies present in their blood but did not show the expected antibody binding to the kidney tissue. In four patients studied, three showed significant improvement in kidney function after treatment, highlighting that anti-GBM antibodies might not always interact with kidney tissue as previously thought. This is important because it suggests that doctors need to confirm kidney damage with tests, as patients with non-binding antibodies may still have the potential for recovery. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with crescentic glomerulonephritis.

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This study looked at the types of injuries that send people to emergency rooms in two trauma hospitals in The Gambia and how these injuries affect whether patients are discharged with a disability. Out of 1,905 patients, 26% were injured in road traffic accidents, while 22% were struck by objects. The findings show that men are more likely to be admitted to the hospital and to leave with some level of disability, particularly from brain injuries and fractures. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers in understanding injury patterns and improving care for those involved in accidents.

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This study looked at the causes of road traffic injuries in Gambia by examining patients treated at two major trauma hospitals. Out of 254 patients, two-thirds were male, and a significant 67% of injuries involved non-vehicle users like pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists, especially on weekdays. Young pedestrians, particularly students under 14, are at the highest risk, with head injuries being very common; for instance, concussion rates are 3.5 times higher among non-vehicle users than for those inside vehicles. Who this helps: This research benefits policymakers and public health officials working to improve road safety for pedestrians and young people.

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This study looked at a rare condition called renal Fanconi syndrome, which had gone undiagnosed in a patient for over 30 years despite various medical tests. The researchers found that both the mother and her son had a specific genetic mutation that contributed to their symptoms, with the mother's kidney biopsy revealing unusual mitochondria. This research shows how advanced genetic testing can uncover hidden disorders, which is important for providing proper diagnosis and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with rare genetic conditions and their families.

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This study looked at 84 patients with advanced kidney disease caused by light chain amyloidosis, a condition affecting kidney function in 70% of AL amyloidosis patients. It found that patients who reduced their harmful light chains by 90% or more within three months of starting chemotherapy had much better outcomes, including longer survival and a delay in needing dialysis. Specifically, faster and more significant reductions in light chains led to improved kidney survival, indicating that how quickly and effectively chemotherapy works is crucial for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with light chain amyloidosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at ways to reduce infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that can occur when patients have peripheral intravenous cannulae (small tubes inserted into veins). The researchers found that after implementing a new infection prevention program, there was a 63% reduction in infections linked to these cannulae, dropping from a rate of 0.39 to 0.14 infections per 10,000 occupied bed-days. This is important because reducing these infections can lead to better patient outcomes and lower healthcare costs. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving intravenous treatments and the healthcare professionals caring for them.

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This study explored how different manufacturing methods affect the properties of ceramic-polymer composites, focusing on a material called CaCuTiO as a filler in a polymer matrix. Researchers discovered that by optimizing these processes, they could increase the composites' ability to store electrical energy—known as the dielectric constant—by up to 10 times, reaching over 1,000 with minimal energy loss. This improvement matters because it could lead to more efficient electronic devices that operate better across various temperatures. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers of electronic devices and components.

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This study looked at a rare case of a 9-year-old boy with a blood clot in his leg due to a condition called inferior vena cava atresia, which can lead to such clots. The boy was successfully treated with two specific procedures, and after six months he showed no symptoms and was given medication to prevent future clots. This is important because it provides a successful treatment example for managing serious blood clots in children, especially those with similar vascular conditions. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients with deep vein thrombosis and their doctors.

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This study focused on improving the flu vaccination rates among healthcare workers in Australia, where only about 50% were getting vaccinated. After implementing a new campaign at Alfred Health, vaccination rates jumped to 80% in 2014, with significant increases across all staff categories. This matters because higher vaccination rates among healthcare workers can help prevent the spread of influenza, protecting both staff and patients. Who this helps: Patients, healthcare workers, and the general community.

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This study examined the levels of vitamin D and related proteins in African American patients with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that these patients had lower levels of vitamin D and a protein that helps transport it in the blood, compared to non-diabetic African Americans and Caucasians with diabetes. Supplementing with L-cysteine, an amino acid, boosted the levels of these essential nutrients more effectively when combined with vitamin D, which may help address health issues linked to vitamin D deficiency in this group. Who this helps: This helps African American patients with type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at a new disinfectant called Huwa-San peroxide, which combines hydrogen peroxide with silver, to see how well it kills bacteria in water. Researchers found that at concentrations of 20 parts per million (ppm), Huwa-San peroxide was just as effective or better at killing bacteria than traditional disinfectants like regular hydrogen peroxide or bleach. This matters because it could provide a more effective way to disinfect drinking water and reduce health risks from harmful bacteria. Who this helps: This benefits patients and communities by improving water safety.

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This study focused on light chain deposition disease (LCDD), a condition where abnormal protein chains build up in the kidneys and cause kidney damage. Researchers followed 53 patients over an average of 6.2 years and found that the average survival time after diagnosis was about 14 years, but 62% of patients ended up needing dialysis. The results showed that those who responded well to chemotherapy had a better kidney function over time, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment to slow disease progression and prevent future complications. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with LCDD and their doctors by emphasizing the importance of timely treatment.

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Researchers in an Australian hospital launched a program to reduce infections caused by central lines, which are tubes placed in patients' veins. Over 20 months, the rates of these infections dropped significantly: by 61% in intensive care units and 46% in non-ICU areas. This is important because it shows that hospital-wide efforts can effectively lower infection risks, ultimately improving patient safety and health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients by decreasing their risk of infection during hospital stays.

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This study looked at how often renal amyloidosis is incorrectly diagnosed as minimal change disease (MCD) in patients with kidney problems. Out of 2,116 patients with confirmed renal amyloidosis, 27 were initially misdiagnosed with MCD. The average time taken to correct the diagnosis was about 8 months, and many of these patients had severe proteinuria, averaging 7.8 grams per day. These findings are important because a delay in properly diagnosing renal amyloidosis can lead to worse health outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with kidney problems, particularly those experiencing severe protein loss.