PATRICIA BURNS, M.D.

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This study looked at how long patients with ischemic strokes experienced severe lack of blood flow, known as severe hypoperfusion, and its connection to the risk of bleeding in the brain, called hemorrhagic transformation (HT). Out of 1,105 stroke patients studied, about 36% had severe hypoperfusion, and 12.6% experienced bleeding. The findings showed that for every 15-minute increase in time since symptoms started, the risk of bleeding increased by 4%, and severe hypoperfusion raised the risk nearly three times. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors in assessing stroke patients for potential risks of brain bleeding.

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This study looked at a specific gene called RPE65 in a type of frog (Xenopus laevis) to understand its role in vision. The researchers found that while these frogs had some light response, it was weaker—about 75% less sensitive compared to normal frogs—without any signs of retinal damage or degeneration. This matters because it shows that even without this gene, some visual function remains, which could lead to new ways of understanding and treating certain types of blindness. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying vision loss and potential treatments for patients with genetic blindness.

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This study looked at how well laboratories in Ghana follow guidelines for testing bacteria and their resistance to antibiotics. Out of 19 labs, 11 responded, revealing that many used outdated methods and quality control issues, which could lead to incorrect results. Notably, only 20% of cases matched the recommended dosages for certain antibiotics, meaning patients might not be getting the correct amount of medicine they need. Who this helps: This helps patients who need effective antibiotic treatments.

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This study looked at the use of genetic testing guidelines for thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) in 1,323 adults at a large medical center. They found that only 2.6% of the 426 patients who were tested had genetic issues linked to their condition, while 68.3% tested negative, and 29.1% had uncertain results. This tells us that fewer patients than expected have genetic causes for TAA, suggesting that doctors need to be more selective about who they test for these genetic conditions. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients with thoracic aortic disease by improving how genetic testing is used.

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This study looked at a mobile app called My Personal Health Guide, designed to help young African American men who have sex with men stick to their HIV treatment. Among the 131 participants who used the app, those who received it were nearly four times more likely to follow their treatment plan properly compared to those who didn't use the app (odds of 3.97). This is important because better adherence to HIV medication leads to improved health outcomes, reducing the risk of the virus spreading and helping manage the disease. Who this helps: Young African American men living with HIV.

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This study focused on creating reliable reference values for cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), which measures how well the body responds to exercise. Researchers analyzed data from 5,956 healthy individuals aged 6 to 83 across multiple countries but found that variability in methods and results made it difficult to create universal reference ranges for peak oxygen uptake and peak work rate. The findings are important because they highlight the need for consistent testing protocols, which could eventually lead to better diagnoses and treatments for patients with exercise limitations. Who this helps: Patients with exercise limitations and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how to treat ruptures of the tibialis anterior tendon, a rare injury, by examining cases at three hospitals. They found that out of 20 injuries in 19 patients, conservative treatment worked well for smaller injuries, while surgical options like tendon repairs or transfers helped restore full strength in more serious cases. The research highlights that there are effective treatments available with low risks of complications, and underscores the need for further studies in this area. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and doctors by providing guidance on effective treatment options for this type of injury.

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This study tested a mobile app called My Personal Health Guide to see if it could help young African American men who have sex with men (AAMSM) take their HIV medications more consistently. Over six months, those using the app were found to be 1.54 times more likely to stick to their treatment plan, achieving at least 80% adherence compared to those who did not use the app. This improvement matters because better adherence to HIV treatment can lead to healthier lives and reduced transmission of the virus within communities. Who this helps: This benefits young African American men living with HIV.

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This study looked at how well vaccines work and their safety for people receiving targeted therapies that suppress the immune system. The researchers found that some treatments cause varying responses to vaccines: for example, those on therapies like alemtuzumab showed much weaker vaccine response, while others like mepolizumab had minimal impact. This matters because understanding the risks and effectiveness of vaccines in these patients can help prevent infections and guide safe vaccination practices. Who this helps: This helps patients on targeted therapies and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new type of wound dressing coated with a material called DACC to see if it helps prevent infections after lower limb vascular surgery. It involved 718 patients who were randomly assigned to receive either the DACC dressings or standard dressings. The goal was to see if the DACC dressings led to fewer infections, better wound healing, and improved quality of life, which is important because surgical site infections can seriously affect recovery and healthcare costs. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from vascular surgeries.

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This study looked at how Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in Mississippi understand their risk of getting HIV and how that affects their use of PrEP, a preventive medication. It found that while 86.9% of participants had taken PrEP in the past year, those who perceived their risk of HIV as high were actually less likely to use it, with only 20% of those at high risk taking PrEP. This is important because it highlights that how individuals view their risk can influence their health choices, and social and structural issues may affect their decisions about using preventive treatments. Who this helps: This helps Black MSM, healthcare providers, and public health advocates address the barriers to PrEP use among this group.

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This study looked at how different doses of glucocorticoids, like prednisone, affect people's responses to vaccines. It found that those taking less than 7 mg per day can still respond well to vaccines, whereas those on high doses (over 20 mg per day) have weaker responses, producing fewer antibodies. For people on moderate doses (7 to 20 mg), the effects on vaccination responses are unclear. Understanding these differences is crucial for tailoring vaccination plans to patients’ needs. Who this helps: This helps patients on glucocorticoids, their doctors, and healthcare providers managing vaccinations.

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The study looked at the health-related quality of life in people who inject drugs (PWID) after they experience bloodstream infections caused by certain bacteria. Researchers tracked 66 patients, including 17 PWID, and found that while overall health improved within 28 days after treatment, PWID started and remained with significantly lower health scores compared to non-PWID throughout the six months following the infection. Specifically, PWID had much poorer mental health scores, indicating a pressing need to address their mental well-being. Who this helps: This helps patients who inject drugs and their healthcare providers.

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This research focuses on how Australian general practitioners (GPs) are being included in disaster health management systems to improve responses during emergencies. The study found that while GPs play an important role in these systems, they currently lack consistent integration across all areas, which could leave them unsupported and less effective in helping patients during disasters. It's important for GPs to understand their role and connect with local health networks to ensure a coordinated and efficient response. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients during disasters by ensuring better healthcare delivery.

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This study looks at how disasters affect health care in Australia, focusing on the role of general practitioners (GPs). Researchers found that after disasters, health issues often increase, especially for chronic conditions like heart and lung diseases, and that GPs play a key role in managing these problems. Specifically, GPs can help patients access medications and care, which is especially important during and after a disaster. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those with chronic health conditions.

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This study looks at how general medical practices in Australia can better prepare for disasters like bushfires and floods, which are becoming more common due to climate change. It emphasizes the importance of having a disaster plan that includes local risks, emergency contacts, and necessary supplies. The findings highlight that practices must regularly review and update these plans to ensure effective response during emergencies. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers in general practices.

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This study looked at how different factors affect young Black gay and bisexual men living with HIV in the U.S. and their adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). The researchers found that about 28.3% of participants were not adhering to their ART properly. They discovered that low motivation and poor behavioral skills were significant reasons for this non-adherence, especially among those with mild depression. This research highlights the need for HIV treatments to include mental health support to improve adherence among this specific group. Who this helps: This helps young Black gay and bisexual men living with HIV by addressing the barriers they face in sticking to their treatment.

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This study looked at how using e-cigarettes (vaping) affects the lungs over time in both adolescents (ages 12 to 19) and adults (19 and older). Researchers are tracking 300 e-cigarette users and 300 non-users across different age groups over three years to see if vaping causes small airway problems in the lungs. The results will provide crucial information about the long-term effects of vaping on respiratory health. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially young people and adults who use e-cigarettes, as well as healthcare providers seeking to understand vaping's impact on health.

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This study looked at how effective surgery is for treating bone infections in the sesamoid bones of the foot, specifically when only the infected bone is removed. Out of 24 patients treated over 14 years, 15 (63%) experienced complications that sometimes required additional surgery or led to more serious outcomes, with nearly 38% needing further procedures on their foot. These findings highlight that simply removing the infected bone may not be enough to prevent later issues, especially in patients with diabetes and other health problems. Who this helps: Patients with foot infections, particularly those with diabetes.

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This study looked at a type of exercise testing called cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to see if it could reliably measure specific data points in people with advanced cystic fibrosis lung disease when they weren't able to reach their maximum exercise level. They found that two trained testers agreed on the critical measurements in 81% of the cases they examined, with good reliability in how they reported the data. This is important because it means doctors can use submaximal exercise results to help predict patient outcomes, even when full exercise data isn't available. Who this helps: Patients with advanced cystic fibrosis lung disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a complication that can occur after a procedure called TAVR, which is used to treat a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. Researchers examined the case of an 85-year-old woman who developed recurring heart issues one year after her TAVR procedure, and it was found that she had a large mobile mass on her valve, leading to the need for additional surgery. The findings showed that about 1% of TAVR patients might need further surgery to replace the valve, which affects nearly half of those cases directly. Who this helps: This information benefits patients who undergo TAVR and their doctors, by highlighting potential risks and complications.

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This study looked at whether a simpler and cheaper method of measuring blood oxygen levels at night (nocturnal pulse oximetry) could effectively predict obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in children with Down syndrome. Out of 387 children studied, 68.5% had significant OSA, but the oximetry results were less reliable for diagnosing mild cases. The researchers found that while oximetry could identify moderate to severe OSA to some extent, it wasn't good enough for diagnosis, and they recommend using more comprehensive tests instead. Who this helps: This helps doctors who treat children with Down syndrome by guiding them on the best methods for diagnosing sleep apnoea.

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This study looked at how certain areas managed for purposes other than conservation (called Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures, or OECMs) can help protect biodiversity in South Africa, Colombia, and the Philippines. The findings showed that OECMs in South Africa are better at supporting species and ecosystems compared to those in the other two countries. However, none of the OECMs effectively connect different habitats across these regions, which is important for wildlife movement. This matters because finding effective conservation strategies is crucial as countries commit to protecting larger areas of land by 2030. Who this helps: This helps policymakers and conservationists better manage land to protect wildlife.

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This research looked at how blood tests, known as serological tests, can help people with weakened immune systems decide on vaccinations. The study found that serological testing is most useful for diseases like hepatitis B and measles, but it must meet certain criteria to be effective, such as having a reliable test and clear guidelines on how results influence vaccination decisions. This research is important because it helps ensure immunocompromised individuals receive the right vaccines to protect them from severe diseases. Who this helps: Patients with weakened immune systems and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how trauma can cause catatonia in children, a serious condition where they become unresponsive or have unusual movements. The researchers shared four detailed cases of children who developed catatonia after experiencing trauma. They found that recognizing and understanding these cases is important for effective treatment, especially since trauma is increasingly seen as a key factor in triggering this condition. Who this helps: This helps doctors and mental health professionals working with children who have experienced trauma.

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This study looked at how different racial and geographic backgrounds affect patients with Charcot's neuroarthropathy, a serious foot condition often related to diabetes. Out of 120 patients analyzed, 87.5% were white, and minority patients were more likely to have other health issues and undergo certain surgeries, like staged reconstruction, at double the rate of their white counterparts. These findings highlight that location and access to healthcare may impact how effectively this condition is treated among different communities. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, especially those in minority groups who suffer from Charcot's neuroarthropathy and related health issues.

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This study looked at how vaping affects complications after foot and ankle surgery. It involved 122 patients, including 29 who smoked tobacco, 4 who only vaped, 7 who both smoked and vaped, and 54 who did neither. The researchers found no significant differences in surgery complications between those who vaped and those who exclusively smoked, likely due to the small number of vapers in the study. Who this helps: This information is useful for patients planning foot and ankle surgery and their doctors.

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This study focused on how general practitioners (GPs) in Australia can have initial discussions with patients about voluntary assisted dying (VAD), which is a legal option for end-of-life care in most of the country. The researchers found that GPs face various barriers, including legal and ethical concerns, which can make it difficult to initiate these conversations. Addressing these challenges is important because it can lead to patients receiving better end-of-life care that aligns with their wishes. Who this helps: This helps patients considering their end-of-life options and their families.

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This study created detailed maps showing the vertical structure of forests in Colombia using advanced technology that measures the height and density of trees. The researchers made five types of maps at a high resolution, focusing on factors like canopy height and total canopy cover. They found that while these maps are valuable for environmental analysis, they have some inaccuracies, particularly in the Amazon and Andean regions, which need to be considered. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists, conservationists, and policymakers in Colombia.

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This study examined whether a special physical therapy program called Live Long Walk Strong (LLWS) could help improve mobility in middle-aged and older veterans who walk slowly. Over 150 veterans participated in an 8-week program, and the results showed that those in LLWS walked significantly faster, with an average increase of 0.08 meters per second and also improved their balance and activity levels. These findings are important because they suggest that targeted physical therapy can help veterans enhance their movement and overall quality of life. Who this helps: This helps veterans looking to improve their mobility and daily functioning.

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This research studied the daily activity patterns of mammals around the world using a massive database with over 8.9 million observations of 445 species. The scientists found that fewer than half of the species fit traditional classifications of being active during the day or night. Additionally, they discovered that species often changed their activity patterns in response to changes in their environment, with factors like body size influencing whether they were more active during the day (diurnal) or at night (nocturnal). This matters because understanding how animals behave in rapidly changing environments can help scientists and conservationists develop better strategies to protect them. Who this helps: This helps conservationists and wildlife managers.

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This study looked at whether a treatment called endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) helps stroke patients who have blockages in medium-sized blood vessels. A total of 530 patients were involved, and it was found that after 90 days, 41.6% of those treated with EVT were doing well (scores of 0 or 1 on a quality of life scale) compared to 43.1% of those who received standard care. However, EVT did not result in better outcomes and had a higher death rate (13.3% vs. 8.4%), suggesting that it may not be beneficial for this group of stroke patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors decide on the best treatment for stroke patients with medium-vessel occlusions.

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This study looked at the long-term survival rates of patients who underwent surgery to fix problems caused by Charcot neuroarthropathy, a condition that can deform bones in the foot and lead to serious complications. Researchers found that the mortality rate over ten years after this surgery was significant, highlighting the importance of successful limb reconstruction in improving quality of life and reducing the chances of severe outcomes like amputations. This matters because it shows that effective surgery can help people with this condition live longer, healthier lives. Who this helps: This helps patients with Charcot neuroarthropathy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how a treatment called endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) affects thinking and memory in patients who had a stroke caused by a blockage in a major artery. Researchers found that patients who received EVT were significantly more likely to score better on five different tests of cognitive function compared to those who did not receive the treatment. For example, there was a 2.32 times greater chance of a favorable score on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment for those treated with EVT. This is important because it shows that EVT not only helps with immediate physical recovery after a stroke but also improves long-term cognitive health, which can greatly enhance patients' quality of life. Who this helps: Patients who suffer from acute ischemic strokes.

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This study looked at how having a community pharmacist help with medication management affects older adults at risk of falling. After the pharmacist's review, patients had 8% fewer medications and a 33% decrease in the use of certain drugs that increase fall risk. Additionally, the appropriateness of prescribed medications improved by 56%, leading to significant cost savings of up to £82,642 and a reduction in carbon emissions. Who this helps: This helps older patients who are at risk of falls and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the importance of flu vaccinations in Australia and how they can help protect people, especially during the rise of influenza after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. It found that while about 70% of older adults received the flu vaccine in 2022, many younger people and other at-risk groups did not, indicating a need for improvement in vaccination rates. Better strategies and resources are needed to ensure more people, especially those vulnerable to severe flu illness, get vaccinated, which is crucial for public health. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.

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This study looked at how a protein called ASCT2 helps cancer cells take in an amino acid called serine, which is crucial for their growth. The researchers found that ASCT2 significantly contributes to this uptake, and that it competes with another amino acid, glutamine, for entry into the cells. This discovery is important because understanding how cancer cells obtain serine can help develop new treatments targeting ASCT2, potentially limiting cancer growth. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer by opening up new avenues for therapy.

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This study looked at how a specific mutation in rhodopsin (T4K) leads to retinal degeneration in animal models, particularly under different light conditions. Researchers found that retinal damage was most severe when animals were exposed to specific light cycles for at least an hour of darkness and 20 minutes of intense light, resulting in rapid cell death and significant shedding of retinal fragments. This is important because it helps to understand how certain genetic mutations affect vision and could lead to tailored treatment strategies for different types of retinal diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with specific retinal disorders, especially those caused by rhodopsin mutations.

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This study focused on improving how we measure the clarity and detail of video endoscopes, which are important tools for surgeries and cancer detection. The researchers found that several factors, like image brightness and modifications made to the images, significantly affect the accuracy of these measurements. By refining the measurement process, this work aims to set better standards for evaluating video endoscopes, which could help improve their performance across various medical applications. Who this helps: This helps doctors and medical professionals who rely on video endoscopes for precise diagnosis and treatment.

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This study focused on understanding how certain genetic factors in rice affect the ability to create callus, which is crucial for improving rice varieties through plant breeding. Researchers analyzed 110 rice samples and discovered seven specific genetic locations (known as QTLs) on chromosomes 2, 6, 7, and 11 that influence callus induction. For example, one genetic factor linked to the callus formation in the B5 growing medium was found on chromosome 6, while others were identified on different chromosomes for various growth mediums, showing that genetic differences can significantly impact how well rice can develop callus. Who this helps: This research benefits plant breeders and farmers looking to enhance rice production through genetic improvements.

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This study focused on creating detailed maps of vegetation structure using data from a satellite called GEDI, which collected over 7 billion laser measurements. The researchers developed maps showing 36 different aspects of vegetation at three different levels of detail (1, 6, and 12 kilometers). They found that these maps are most accurate in areas with moderate latitude, where there is a good balance between the number of measurements and the amount of vegetation. Who this helps: This helps scientists and environmental planners understand ecosystems better, which can inform conservation efforts and climate strategies.

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Researchers studied a 54-year-old woman who had severe chest and abdominal pain. Initial imaging showed a problem in the thoracic aorta that seemed like a type of bleeding, but further tests revealed it was actually inflammation caused by a condition called IgG4-related disease. This case is important because it demonstrates that rare diseases can be mistaken for more common issues, and it highlights the need for careful evaluation by a team of medical specialists. Who this helps: This helps patients with aortic diseases and doctors diagnosing complex conditions.

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This study looked at how different types of forest fuels, especially ladder fuels (the smaller trees and brush that help fires climb), affect wildfire severity during extreme weather events in California. Researchers analyzed data from 42 wildfires between 2019 and 2021 and found that while more fuel generally leads to more severe fires, this relationship changes in very tall trees where severity goes down. The findings show that focusing on managing ladder fuels can help reduce wildfire severity, especially in tough conditions like steep slopes and high winds. Who this helps: This information benefits forest managers and firefighters by guiding them on how to reduce wildfire risks effectively.

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This study looked at the state of tropical rainforests around the world and how they support various animal species. Researchers found that while 90% of the areas where forest animals live are covered by forests, only 25% of those forests are in good condition without major human damage. This is especially concerning for endangered species, as they have less quality habitat available. Protecting these remaining healthy rainforests is vital to prevent further loss of biodiversity. Who this helps: This helps conservationists, wildlife, and future generations.