ROBIN R. COLE, M.D.

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In this study, researchers focused on improving how well doctors assess frailty in older patients scheduled for surgery on their lower limbs. They found that by teaching the vascular team and using a mobile app, the accuracy of frailty scores improved significantly, helping to better identify patients who needed to see geriatricians for additional care. This matters because accurately assessing frailty can lead to better pre-surgery planning and outcomes for elderly patients. Who this helps: Older patients undergoing lower limb surgery.

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This study looked at how fourth-year medical students understood and practiced the concept of followership during a high-stakes military medical simulation. The research found that students actively supported leaders, knew when to take charge or step back, and helped maintain team spirit during stressful situations. Understanding followership matters because it enhances team performance and helps develop future leaders in healthcare. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and healthcare educators.

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This study looked at a new method for solving Linear Programming (LP) problems, which are used in various fields like economics and logistics to optimize resources. The researchers found that their approach allows for much faster solutions, particularly for large problems, because it relies on a specific measure of the problem's structure rather than mathematical constants that can slow down other methods. For example, when using their new method on certain types of constraint matrices, it significantly improves the speed of finding solutions compared to traditional methods. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and professionals who work with complex optimization problems, like those in logistics or operations management.

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This study looked at how to improve military medical training by incorporating teamwork and communication skills from the beginning of medical education. Researchers found that students who engaged in simulation-based education with international faculty experienced benefits like better cultural understanding, teamwork, and readiness for multi-country military operations. Importantly, this approach led to increased trust and shared communication skills, which are crucial for working effectively in diverse teams. Who this helps: This benefits military medical students and training programs globally.

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This study looked at the role of sponsorship in health professions education, especially how it can help early-career researchers. The authors found that while sponsorship can provide important support, it can also introduce challenges and not everyone needs it. Understanding how to create fair and effective sponsorship practices is essential for fostering a more equitable research environment. Who this helps: This benefits early-career researchers in health education.

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This study looked at two methods for collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in cattle, comparing one traditional technique from the lower back to a new ultrasound-guided method from the neck area. Researchers found that the new neck method led to better quality samples, with significantly lower levels of red blood cells and proteins, which are indicators of potential issues, compared to the back method. This is important because it offers a safer and more effective way to collect fluid for testing in cattle, improving animal welfare and diagnostic accuracy. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians working with cattle and helps ensure better health monitoring for the animals.

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This study looked at how experienced healthcare educators teach medical students to handle uncertainty in their work. Researchers interviewed 15 educators and discovered four main strategies: practicing under pressure helps build confidence; creating a safe and supportive environment encourages engagement; reflecting on experiences fosters growth; and flexible thinking aids decision-making. These findings highlight the importance of teaching doctors how to manage uncertainty, which can improve patient care and clinician resilience, especially in high-stress situations like emergency medicine. Who this helps: This helps medical students and healthcare educators.

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This study looked at how well undergraduate chemistry labs teach students important scientific skills, rather than just basic chemistry facts. The researchers found that existing assessment tools don't effectively evaluate these skills, meaning students might not be learning as much as they could. They propose new, flexible assessment methods that will help teachers improve the lab experience and focus on developing these vital competencies. Who this helps: This benefits students by enhancing their skills and understanding in chemistry.

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This research studied a 12-year-old cow that had a swollen abdomen and a large mass on her neck. Tests showed that she had a type of thyroid cancer called follicular-compact carcinoma, which had spread to lymph nodes. The cancer caused serious health issues, leading to the decision to euthanize the cow; this kind of thyroid cancer is uncommon in cows but can cause significant problems when it does occur. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and farmers by increasing awareness of rare cancers in cattle.

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This study looked at how large-scale forest restoration in Costa Rica helps improve biodiversity. Researchers analyzed sound recordings from 119 locations and found that restored forests had sound patterns similar to mature forests, showing recovery. In fact, restored natural forests were 1.4 times more similar to reference forests than degraded pastures, while monoculture plantations were only 1.24 times similar. This is important because it shows that natural restoration methods are more effective for biodiversity than single-species plantations. Who this helps: This helps environmentalists, conservation groups, and policymakers focused on ecosystem restoration.

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This study looked at how to pinpoint the key parts of programs designed to prevent teen pregnancies. The researchers focused on a specific teen pregnancy prevention program and developed methods to identify which components were most effective. Their findings can help improve how these programs are designed and evaluated, leading to better outcomes for teens. Who this helps: This helps policymakers and program developers who work with teen pregnancy prevention efforts.

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This study looked at how tree pollen, specifically from alder and birch trees, affects asthma-related hospital admissions across England from 2008 to 2022. It found that moderate levels of alder and birch pollen increase the risk of asthma attacks, particularly in children; for instance, children aged 0-4 had a 13% higher risk of admission with birch pollen exposure. Understanding this relationship is important because it can help inform public health responses during pollen seasons to protect vulnerable groups. Who this helps: Children with asthma and their caregivers.

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This research paper studied a new training program for medical students that helps them prepare for emergencies and disasters. Over four years, the program gradually increases the complexity of simulation exercises, moving from simple roleplays to real-life scenarios that test both clinical skills and leadership. It aims to better equip future doctors to handle high-pressure situations effectively, showing promise for improved preparedness in 100% of the participating students. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and, ultimately, the patients they will serve in emergencies.

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This study looked at how historical loss affects the relationship between childhood trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in American Indian and Alaska Native adults. Researchers found that people with both high levels of historical loss and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) had more severe PTSD symptoms; specifically, those with high historical loss symptoms and high ACEs reported significantly greater PTSD symptoms than those with low ACEs. This matters because it highlights the need for tailored PTSD treatments and public health efforts that take into account both childhood trauma and the unique historical challenges faced by these communities. Who this helps: This helps American Indian and Alaska Native adults dealing with PTSD, as well as doctors and healthcare providers working with these populations.

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Researchers are studying how to better prepare military medical students to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their work. They found that current AI education is mainly offered as electives and not integrated into the overall curriculum, leaving students unprepared to handle AI-related tasks in real-world situations. They propose a clear plan to include AI training throughout medical education, which will help students develop the skills they need to make informed decisions in challenging environments. Who this helps: This benefits military medical students and, ultimately, the patients they serve.

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This study looked at how medical students used mindfulness techniques during a demanding military simulation over several days. The researchers found that 96 students reported using mindfulness to help them lead better, stay more resilient under stress, and work together more effectively as a team. These findings show that simple mindfulness practices can help students handle pressure and perform well in intense situations, which is important for their training in medical education. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators in training programs.

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This study looked at a test called glycosylated fibronectin (GlyFn) to see if it could predict serious complications for mothers and their babies in pregnancies complicated by high blood pressure. The research found that GlyFn could correctly identify 100% of high-risk cases for severe issues when tested before 34 weeks of pregnancy. This is important because it means that using GlyFn can help doctors identify at-risk women early and potentially improve care in settings with limited resources. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with high blood pressure and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at using a special sensor to prevent injuries from IV catheters in hospitalized babies. Researchers found that up to 45% of IV catheters fail, leading to injuries like infiltration or extravasation, which affect up to 20% of patients. By testing this biosensor on 532 infants in three Australian hospitals, the goal is to see if it can reduce these injuries and improve the overall treatment experience for these vulnerable patients. Who this helps: This research helps babies in the hospital who need IV treatment.

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This study focused on an 18-year-old female pygmy goat that had a serious infection called pyometra, which was caused by a blockage in her vagina due to a condition known as a persistent hymen. The blockage was resolved with surgery and specific medication, allowing her body to drain properly and recover from the infection. This finding is important because such issues are typically observed in younger goats, highlighting the need for veterinarians to consider unusual reproductive problems in older pet goats. Who this helps: This helps pet goat owners and veterinarians by raising awareness of rare health issues in older goats.

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This study looked at what types of programs to reduce the risk of sexual violence are acceptable to Indigenous college students. Out of 401 students surveyed, a significant 80.8% reported having experienced sexual victimization at some point. The most popular intervention was the Sexual Assault Risk and Alcohol Use Reduction Program, chosen by 36.2% of students, while a majority found all programs acceptable, with 95.3% rating one program very positively. Who this helps: This research helps Indigenous college students by identifying effective support programs tailored to their needs.

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This study looked at a new digital system called Techcyte SureView™ for analyzing cervical cell samples in laboratories. Researchers tested it using 1,442 digital images from different types of cervical tests and found that the system was very accurate: it detected abnormalities with 97% accuracy and had 82% sensitivity, meaning it effectively identified most issues. This is important because it enhances the reliability of cervical cancer screenings, making them quicker and more efficient. Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors by improving cervical cancer screening accuracy.

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This study looked at how a program that allows advanced medical students to teach each other prepares them for leadership roles in the military. Researchers collected feedback from 19 participants and found that peer teaching boosted their skills in leadership, communication, adaptability, and forming their professional identity. For example, they reported improvements in guiding others, handling stress, and making quick decisions in difficult situations, which are critical for their roles in the field. Who this helps: This benefits military medical students and those involved in their training.

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This study looked at the sleep problems faced by military emergency medicine residents and the challenges they have in seeking help. Out of 36 residents surveyed, 24 participated, and 11 showed excessive daytime sleepiness. They reported issues like inconsistent sleep schedules and feeling that their sleep had worsened since starting their residency, often due to stigma surrounding the use of sleep medications. Who this helps: This research will benefit military emergency medicine residents by highlighting their sleep struggles and encouraging better support and interventions.

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This study looked at a new tool called PaNURAMA, designed to help assess the risks of transferring sick children between hospitals when their conditions are not critical. Researchers examined data from 175 transfers and found that 68% of the cases were deemed to have moderate risk, with 26% needing a nurse to accompany them. The tool was highly accurate, with an overall agreement rate of 94% between the initial and final assessments, which means it can effectively guide decisions about care and safety during these transfers. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare teams involved in the transfer of pediatric patients.

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This study focused on detecting two unpleasant-smelling substances, geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol, in water and fish. The researchers developed a new, automated method that reliably identifies these compounds at very low levels—1.2 nanograms per liter in water and 18.1 nanograms per kilogram in fish tissue—before they can be smelled by humans. This is important because it helps ensure better water quality and fish flavor, enhancing the safety and appeal of aquaculture products. Who this helps: This benefits fish farmers and consumers by improving the quality of fish products.

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This study looked at the safety of a specific type of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for healthy horses' joints. Researchers compared the effects of this treatment to a placebo in 12 horses and found that there were no significant differences in joint swelling, heat, or lameness between the horses that received the PRP injection and those that received the placebo. This matters because it shows that the PRP injection is safe to use, though more research is needed to understand how effective it is for treating joint issues in horses. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners looking for safe treatment options for joint problems in horses.

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This study looked at two new blood tests that measure Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) in pregnant women with high blood pressure in Sierra Leone. The results showed that the RONIA test can effectively rule out serious health risks for mothers and their babies—specifically, it accurately identified that 94.9% of women were not at risk for serious complications if their PlGF level was below 60 pg/mL, and 100% if under 20 pg/mL. The Lepzi Quanti test also proved reliable, with 100% accuracy for ruling out risks below 90 pg/mL but indicated a higher risk for complications at lower levels. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women at risk for complications and healthcare providers in low-resource settings.

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This research paper looked at how medical educators can build effective research programs instead of just doing individual studies. The authors reviewed 25 articles and found that eight key strategies can help, such as focusing research on important questions and aligning it with the goals of their institutions. These strategies can improve the quality and impact of their work, though more research is needed to see how well these strategies work in different settings. Who this helps: This benefits medical educators looking to enhance their research efforts and establish a stronger professional presence in their field.

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Researchers studied a new wearable system designed to detect Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), a serious condition that affects about 33 out of every 100,000 infants in the U.S. each year and can lead to high rates of death or severe disabilities. The system uses advanced sensors and machine learning to recognize harmful shaking patterns in real-time, which traditional methods cannot do effectively. This technology is important because it offers a safer way to identify at-risk infants quickly, potentially reducing injuries and supporting faster help for those in danger. Who this helps: This benefits infants at risk of SBS and their caregivers.

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Researchers explored how artificial intelligence (AI) could help evaluate medical students' understanding of a complex topic called moral injury, particularly in military contexts. They tested a specific AI model by creating a grading system based on six key articles and grading 165 student responses, finding that the AI scored student work similarly to experienced educators, with a scoring agreement level of about 77% when compared to one reviewer. This method can make assessments faster and more consistent, which is important for improving the training of future health care professionals and ultimately enhancing patient care. Who this helps: This benefits medical students, educators, and patients by improving the educational assessment process.

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This case study focuses on a 15-year-old Thoroughbred mare that developed a serious infection known as a spinal epidural abscess after having a condition called fistulous withers. Despite treatments with antibiotics and other medications, the mare showed worsening symptoms, leading to euthanasia. The study found that the mare had a large abscess causing severe pressure on her spinal cord, highlighting the need for quick diagnosis and intervention in similar cases to improve chances of recovery. Who this helps: This information benefits veterinarians and horse owners by emphasizing the importance of monitoring chronic infections in horses.

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This study looked at how mindfulness might help American Indian and Alaska Native adults cope with historical trauma and reduce substance use. Researchers found that many participants thought about their historical losses daily, and those with higher levels of such thoughts tended to use substances more. However, adults with high levels of mindfulness were less likely to use substances, suggesting that practicing mindfulness could be a valuable tool for managing substance use related to trauma. Who this helps: This benefits American Indian and Alaska Native adults dealing with substance use issues connected to historical trauma.

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This study explored a method for treating shoulder problems caused by significant bone loss in both the glenoid (the part of the shoulder blade) and the humeral head (the top of the arm bone). Researchers found that using a combined graft from the distal tibia and talus can effectively restore stability in patients with recurrent shoulder dislocations, especially when there is a lot of bone missing. This matters because restoring stability can help prevent further dislocations and improve overall function in the shoulder. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from recurrent shoulder instability.

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This study looked at a new surgical technique for repairing injuries in the back of the shoulder, called the posterior labrum, using a method that makes smaller cuts. The researchers found that this approach allows for effective repair while minimizing recovery time, which can be beneficial for patients wanting to return to sports quickly. Using this technique offers a less invasive option compared to traditional surgery, which can lead to better outcomes and quicker healing for patients. Who this helps: This helps athletes and active individuals with shoulder injuries.

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This study looks at how BBC television programs from the 1950s to the 1970s showcased science and technology museums in the UK. It focuses on a ten-part series aired in 1971 that featured museums like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, highlighted by hosts such as Patrick Moore and George Porter. The findings show that these televised tours combined traditional museum display styles with broadcasting techniques, helping viewers understand and appreciate scientific history in a new way, which allows them to see various narratives about science as more authentic and engaging. Who this helps: This benefits the general public by making science history more accessible and engaging through television.

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The study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing warfare and the impact on military medicine. It found that military medical education and practices are not keeping up with these changes, which could leave them unprepared for future battles. Key issues identified include the need for better trauma training, improvements in medical logistics, and stronger ethical guidelines, along with specific recommendations like integrating AI scenarios into training exercises for medical staff. Who this helps: This benefits military medical personnel and ultimately improves care for soldiers on the battlefield.

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This study looked at the anatomy of two little-known dolphin species: the hourglass dolphin and the spectacled porpoise. Researchers found that these animals have unique features, such as the spectacled porpoise's large dorsal fin, which may help regulate body temperature or play a role in attracting mates. This research is important because it enhances our understanding of these rare species, their evolutionary relationships, and their role in the Southern Ocean ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps researchers, conservationists, and wildlife managers who focus on marine species.

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This study looked at the training needs of medical providers—both military and civilian—who will have to deal with large-scale combat operations, especially given future conflicts with nations like Russia and China. Researchers interviewed 28 individuals, including military doctors and a chaplain, to find out the essential skills required for effectively treating patients in tough conditions. They found that key training areas include problem-solving in limited-resource situations, handling ethical challenges, leading under stress, mastering medical skills, and working well with diverse teams. This is important because preparing medical personnel with these skills can improve their ability to save lives during intense military conflicts. Who this helps: Patients and medical providers in both military and civilian settings.

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This study looked at how well the shock index (the ratio of heart rate to blood pressure) predicts serious outcomes for women suffering from postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and sepsis in Sierra Leone. The researchers found that a higher shock index was linked to a significantly increased risk of bad outcomes, like maternal death, with odds ratios showing that the risk nearly doubled for PPH (up to 10 times for the worst index) and was over 15 times higher in cases of sepsis. This matters because using the shock index can help doctors quickly identify women who are at greater risk and ensure they get the right care in a timely manner. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare workers in managing maternal health more effectively.

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This study looked at a new method for treating large knee joint injuries where the surface cartilage is damaged, specifically in the area called the trochlea. The researchers found that using multiple overlapping tissue grafts—referred to as the "snowman" technique—can improve the chances of a successful repair, especially when a single graft isn't enough. This is important because it offers a more effective solution for patients with challenging injuries, potentially leading to better recovery outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe knee cartilage injuries.

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This study looked at two types of cells used for making therapeutic antibodies: Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and a new type called CHL-YN cells. CHL-YN cells grow twice as fast as CHO cells—doubling in just 8.1 hours—and have features that help them create energy and build proteins more effectively. These differences can speed up the production of important medicines and provide better choices for researchers developing new treatments. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers of therapeutic antibodies.

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This study looked at how effective a specific therapy called prolonged exposure (PE) is for reducing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults who are also being treated for opioid use disorder. It involved 82 participants who either received standard medication treatment, PE therapy, or PE therapy with incentives for attending sessions. After 12 weeks, those receiving PE showed better improvements in PTSD symptoms, especially in areas like unwanted memories and avoidance behavior, compared to those just on standard treatment. Who this helps: This benefits adults with PTSD who are undergoing treatment for opioid addiction.

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This study looked at whether medical students learn anything by acting as patients during simulations. Out of 178 first-year medical students participating, none showed a significant increase in test scores when playing the patient compared to those who did not (with scores indicating no difference at P = 0.17-0.99). However, 89.9% of students felt they gained medical knowledge, with important learning happening through observation, experience, and direct teaching. Who this helps: This study benefits medical students by enhancing their learning experiences during training.

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This study looked at what military medical responders experienced while dealing with large groups of injured people during the conflict in Ukraine. The researchers interviewed these responders and found that they face several key challenges: they need better training, triage practices are inconsistent, communication and teamwork are crucial, and they experience significant psychological stress. Understanding these challenges helps improve how first responders are prepared for emergencies and supports their mental health. Who this helps: This benefits military medical responders and organizations involved in emergency response.

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This study looks at how emotions play a key role in healthcare research, particularly when dealing with sensitive topics like trauma and illness. The authors found that acknowledging the emotions of researchers can lead to better insights and deeper relationships with participants, ultimately improving the quality of the research. They argue that training and practices in research should incorporate emotional awareness to prevent researcher burnout and enhance the overall effectiveness of healthcare studies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare professionals, and ultimately patients receiving care.

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This study looked at how mindfulness training affects stress and resilience in military medical students during high-pressure training exercises. The researchers found that after participating in a brief mindfulness program, students showed a significant increase in mindfulness and resilience, with stress levels decreasing. Specifically, mindfulness increased by 32% and resilience by 6%, while perceived stress dropped by 28%. This matters because better stress management can help students perform better in real-life medical situations, even if performance scores didn't show a big difference in this study. Who this helps: This helps military medical students and may also benefit instructors and medical training programs.

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This study focused on creating a research agenda for neonatal care in Southeast Queensland by collaborating with families and healthcare professionals. Researchers gathered input through surveys and workshops, identifying 215 priorities, which were narrowed down to seven key themes, including reducing family stress and optimizing initial care for newborns. This matters because it emphasizes the needs and experiences of families, aiming to improve care for critically ill newborns. Who this helps: This helps families of newborns receiving neonatal care, healthcare professionals, and researchers.