SCOT A. BREWSTER, MD

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This study looked at how brain stimulation can help reduce motion sickness during virtual reality experiences. Researchers found that using a specific type of brain stimulation (20 Hz vestibular brain stimulation) led to an increase in eye movement instability, which helped reduce motion sickness while participants were in VR. This is important because it shows a new, effective way to tackle motion sickness without changing VR settings, making the experience more enjoyable for users. Who this helps: This helps patients who experience motion sickness, particularly those using virtual reality technology.

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This study focused on creating a new foot design for the humanoid robot Mithra to make it move more like a human. Researchers developed and tested a new flexible foot, which showed a significant improvement in performance compared to an older rigid design, mimicking human foot function better. This improvement is important because it can enhance the robot's balance and walking ability, making it more effective for various applications. Who this helps: This benefits engineers designing advanced robots, as well as patients using lower-limb prosthetics and exoskeletons.

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The study looked at a new system called RadioMe, designed to help people with dementia by using music to manage symptoms such as agitation. Researchers worked with 25 participants, aged about 74, to create customized playlists and tested an automated music feature that was supposed to play music when a heart rate monitor detected stress. However, the system turned out to be too complicated and didn’t work well; participants found the music played at random times and became repetitive, indicating that the system needs to be improved to better meet their needs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with dementia and their caregivers by aiming to enhance their quality of life at home.

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This study looked at how effective reminder apps on mobile phones could be for adults with memory issues due to acquired brain injuries. Out of 29 participants, 21 received training on using either the Google Calendar or ApplTree app, and 19 of them were able to use the app successfully after a quick tutorial. The findings indicate that while many users could learn to use the app, more participants are needed for a full trial to see which app works better in helping people remember important tasks. Who this helps: This benefits patients with acquired brain injuries and memory challenges.

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This study created a healthcare game called Geri-POP designed to teach healthcare professionals about caring for older adults. Testing revealed that while faculty liked the game's potential for training, medical students felt it needed better graphics and a more professional tone. Improving this game matters because it could lead to better healthcare practices and outcomes for older adults. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare professionals working with older adults.

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This study looked at how listening to music at home can help people with dementia manage their neuropsychiatric symptoms, which are often challenging. The researchers created personalized playlists based on the music that participants enjoyed, noting that upbeat music made them want to dance while calmer pieces like Beethoven elicited more subtle reactions. The findings show that music tailored to individual preferences can positively impact mood and behavior, and repeated listening helps solidify these benefits. Who this helps: This helps patients with dementia and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how video gaming affects people's experiences with cybersickness, a type of motion sickness caused by virtual reality (VR). The researchers found that people who play video games felt less cybersickness than those who don’t play games. In their tests, gamers scored better on tasks involving visual attention and experienced significantly less discomfort during VR activities—showing that gaming experience helps people adapt to VR environments. Who this helps: This benefits gamers and anyone who might experience motion sickness while using VR, helping to make virtual reality experiences more enjoyable for them.

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This study looked at how people with intellectual disabilities in the UK experienced voting in the 2017 and 2019 general elections. Researchers interviewed 20 participants, finding that issues like access to election information and the support available at polling stations greatly affected their voting experiences. For instance, those who received better support were more likely to have a positive voting experience. Understanding these issues matters because it can help improve voting participation and accessibility for people with intellectual disabilities. Who this helps: This helps voters with intellectual disabilities and organizations working to support them.

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This study explored how well different virtual reality (VR) interaction methods work in cramped spaces like airplane seats. Researchers tested three techniques with 16 participants and found that one method called Linear Gain worked best, providing a similar experience to home VR, although it led to more accidental arm movements and boundary violations. This matters because it shows that VR can be more enjoyable and usable even in confined areas, making travel more engaging. Who this helps: This helps travelers who use VR on planes, trains, or cars.

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This study looked at a smartphone app called ApplTree, designed to help people with memory challenges after a brain injury remember important tasks. Over four months, five participants used the app, which included features like reminders triggered by notifications. They found that receiving four reminders a day helped the number of tasks they remembered to set double, and four out of five liked getting those prompts. Who this helps: This benefits patients with acquired brain injuries and their families by improving their ability to manage daily tasks.

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This research paper discusses how complex healthcare interventions can provide better care at lower costs but require careful planning to succeed. It highlights the Medical Research Council's guidelines for developing these interventions and introduces two tools that can help in designing them effectively. This matters because well-planned interventions can lead to better health outcomes for patients and more efficient use of resources. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers.

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This study examined how the human vestibular network (HVN) relates to cybersickness (CS) experienced by users of virtual reality (VR). Researchers looked at various signals from the body and brain while people interacted with VR and found that nearly all the signals showed a connection to how sick participants felt. Specifically, they discovered that different aspects of the HVN could effectively track changes in CS severity over time. Who this helps: This research benefits VR developers and patients prone to cybersickness.

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This study looked at how passengers can use augmented reality (AR) headsets to create virtual workspaces while traveling in shared transportation like cars, trains, subways, and planes. Researchers found that people often adjust their virtual displays based on their physical surroundings and other passengers, such as by avoiding placing displays over someone's belongings or positioning displays to shield themselves from others. Understanding these factors is important because it can help design better AR systems that enhance productivity while considering the unique challenges of working in crowded transit environments. Who this helps: This helps passengers who want to work effectively while traveling.

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This study looked at the best ways to use imaging (like X-rays and CT scans) to diagnose and manage injuries to the chest and abdomen in children. It found that doctors should base their imaging choices on the type of injury and the child's physical examination, ensuring the right tests are done for conditions like lung and organ injuries. This is important because using the right imaging can lead to faster and more accurate treatment for injured children. Who this helps: Patients and doctors dealing with pediatric trauma injuries.

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This study looked at a new technology called ultrasound haptics, which lets people feel sensations in the air without touching anything. Researchers explored how this technology works, what kinds of feelings it can create, and where it might be used in the future. They highlighted both the benefits and limitations of ultrasound haptics, as well as potential uses in different fields, which could lead to exciting new ways for people to interact with technology. Who this helps: This technology benefits developers and designers creating new interactive experiences for users.

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This study looked at a new method for prostate biopsy called local anaesthetic transperineal (LATP), which uses a special device to access the prostate through the perineum without sedation. They found that out of 1,218 men who underwent this procedure, 67% were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 52% had clinically significant cases. Importantly, only two cases of severe infection occurred, making the method both effective and safe. Who this helps: This benefits men undergoing prostate cancer screening and their doctors by providing a safer and more comfortable biopsy option.

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This study looked at whether completing recommended annual diabetes care check-ups is linked to lower death rates among people with diabetes in England and Wales. It found that people with type 1 diabetes who completed five or fewer care processes had a 37% higher risk of dying compared to those who completed all eight processes, while those with type 2 diabetes had a 32% higher risk. This matters because improving routine diabetes care may help reduce deaths among these individuals. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes and their healthcare providers by emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups.

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This research examined how to improve imaging techniques for children with head and neck injuries due to trauma, which is a leading cause of death in this age group. The findings show that using clinical guidelines can help healthcare providers choose the best imaging methods without exposing children to too much radiation. Specific recommendations were made for different types of injuries, like skull fractures and brain injuries. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers treat pediatric patients with head and neck trauma more safely and effectively.

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This study looked at how people recovering from brain injuries struggle to engage in enjoyable activities due to various challenges, such as access issues and low motivation. Researchers interviewed 24 individuals, including brain injury patients and caregivers, to identify these obstacles and potential solutions. They found that support from others and technology can help enhance participation in activities, leading to more effective rehabilitation tools for those affected. Who this helps: This benefits people with brain injuries and their caregivers by guiding the development of technology that supports their recovery and engagement in meaningful activities.

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This research looked at the reasons why people with diabetes miss their appointments with doctors or nurses and the health outcomes related to this issue. The study found that younger adults, smokers, and those facing financial difficulties were more likely to skip appointments, which resulted in worse health outcomes, such as higher blood sugar levels (HbA). These findings highlight the need for better strategies to help patients attend their appointments, focusing not just on reminders but also on understanding the personal and social challenges they face. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes and healthcare providers looking to improve attendance and health outcomes.

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This paper examined how community pharmacists can play a bigger role in diabetes care and found that their involvement leads to better health results for patients. It noted that pharmacists, who are trusted and well-trained in medication management, can provide similar or even better support for people with type 2 diabetes compared to other healthcare providers. Improving how pharmacists are included in healthcare teams is important for enhancing diabetes treatment and saving costs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with diabetes, their doctors, and the healthcare system as a whole.

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This study looked at whether a smartwatch can help people with memory issues caused by brain injuries. It involved four participants over six weeks, and while three of them found the smartwatch useful and improved their memory during the intervention, the increase wasn't statistically significant. However, when they stopped using the smartwatch, their memory dropped significantly, showing that the device did have a positive effect while in use. Who this helps: This helps individuals recovering from brain injuries who struggle with memory.

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This study looked at how doctors and pharmacists in South Central Appalachia communicate about prescription opioid abuse. Researchers found that communication between prescribers and pharmacists often relies on indirect methods, like going through patients or office staff, rather than direct conversations, which are rare and often feel ineffective. This matters because improving communication can help to better manage opioid prescriptions and ultimately reduce abuse. Who this helps: This helps patients who need proper management of their opioid prescriptions.

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This study looked at how doctors felt about being neutral when recruiting patients for a trial that compared two treatments for localized prostate cancer: partial ablation and radical prostatectomy. Initially, many doctors had strong opinions about which treatment was better and this made it hard for them to approach all eligible patients, but after receiving training and support, recruitment improved significantly, rising from an average of 1.4 to 4.5 patients per month, allowing the study to meet its target. This matters because clearer communication and a more balanced view from doctors can help more patients participate in important clinical trials. Who this helps: This benefits patients with localized prostate cancer and their doctors.

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This study focused on validating a set of cognitive tests called the TOMMORROW neuropsychological battery for German speakers to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease. It involved 198 cognitively healthy individuals and 25 people with Alzheimer's, showing that the German version of the tests could reliably distinguish between these two groups, particularly using episodic memory tests, which were nearly twice as effective at identifying Alzheimer's. This work is important because it provides accurate tools for diagnosing mild cognitive impairment related to Alzheimer's in German-speaking patients, ensuring that they receive appropriate care. Who this helps: This helps patients, doctors, and healthcare providers in German-speaking countries.

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This study looked at two treatments for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer: a radical surgery called radical prostatectomy (RP) and a less invasive method called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). They enrolled 82 men, dividing them evenly between the two treatments, and found that while some hospitals faced challenges in recruiting patients, the approach to studying these treatments is feasible. This research is important because it paves the way for a larger trial that could determine which treatment might have better outcomes for patients with this type of cancer. Who this helps: This helps men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer and their doctors.

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Researchers studied how people with brain injuries use memory aids and strategies to help them remember things, comparing results from 2003 to now. They found that more people are using memory aids today, with 86% relying on leaving items in noticeable places and 78% using reminders from others. Overall, technology use also increased, with 38% using mobile phone reminders and alarms. This increase in memory aid use is important because it shows that people with brain injuries are finding more effective ways to manage their memory challenges. Who this helps: This helps patients with acquired brain injuries and their caregivers.

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Researchers tested a smartphone app called STARFISH designed to help older adults be more active. In a six-week pilot study involving 16 older adults, users increased their daily steps by an average of 14%. Participants found the app easy to use and appreciated features that encouraged them to monitor their activity and support each other. Who this helps: This benefits older adults looking to improve their physical activity levels.

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Researchers tested a smartphone app called STARFISH to see how accurately it counts steps compared to a standard step counter while people walked on a treadmill at different speeds. They found that the app's accuracy improved as people walked faster, reporting that at the fastest speed, the app's step count was only 8-12% off compared to the standard counter when the phone was in a shirt pocket or on an arm strap. This matters because it shows that the STARFISH app can effectively track steps, especially when walking briskly, which can help in rehabilitation settings. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors who use mobile technology for rehabilitation and recovery tracking.

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The study looked at how much physical activity and time spent sitting around differed between stroke survivors and healthy individuals. It found that stroke survivors walked an average of 4,035 steps per day, while healthy controls walked 8,394 steps per day, and stroke survivors spent more time sitting—about 20.4 hours compared to 17.5 hours for the healthy group. This matters because increasing physical activity and reducing sitting time can help improve the health and reduce heart risks for those who have had a stroke. Who this helps: This helps stroke survivors and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at changes in specific proteins that help cancer cells become more invasive in prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate. Researchers found that in 67% of cases (18 out of 27), there were significant changes in three important proteins, with differences observed between the cancer inside the prostate and cancer that has extended outside of it. Understanding these changes is important because it helps identify how advanced prostate cancer behaves, which can improve treatment strategies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced prostate cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at a mobile phone app called STARFISH designed to help stroke survivors become more active. Over six weeks, users of the app increased their average daily steps by 39% (from 4,158 to 5,791 steps), while those not using the app walked 20% less (from 3,694 to 2,947 steps). This matters because increasing physical activity can lead to better health outcomes for stroke survivors. Who this helps: Stroke survivors seeking to improve their activity levels and overall health.

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This research looked at how doctors and pharmacists communicate about prescription drug abuse. By talking with 35 healthcare professionals, the study found that while doctors and pharmacists recognize the importance of discussing drug abuse with patients, they often feel uncomfortable doing so and tend to avoid these conversations. Improving how these healthcare providers talk about prescription drug abuse is important because better communication can lead to more effective prevention and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients who may be struggling with prescription drug abuse.

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This study looked at how technology can help people with memory problems, such as those from brain injuries or degenerative diseases. It found that using assistive technology significantly improves memory performance in everyday tasks, with the analysis showing a large effect size of 1.27 across 147 participants. This matters because it highlights a powerful tool that can enhance daily living for individuals facing memory challenges. Who this helps: This helps patients with memory impairments and their caregivers.

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This study examined the effects of a special area called a "radial lounge" for patients undergoing heart procedures. After the lounge opened, 84.7% of patients who had a specific artery procedure and 97.0% of those who had an imaging test left the hospital on the same day, compared to much lower rates before the lounge was available. This change not only allowed more patients to go home the same day, increasing the overall same-day discharge rates from 2.3% to 51.2% for procedures and saving about 595 hospital bed days, but it also made better use of hospital resources. Who this helps: Patients undergoing heart procedures benefit the most from this improved discharge process.

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This study looked at how having blood sugar issues during pregnancy can lead to serious health problems later on, like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It found that women who experience gestational diabetes or even milder blood sugar problems are at a higher risk for these conditions after giving birth. Understanding these risks and changes in women's bodies after pregnancy can help identify ways to lower the chances of developing serious health issues later. Who this helps: This research benefits pregnant women and healthcare providers by highlighting important health risks.

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This study looked at the blood vessel health of women who had either normal blood sugar levels during pregnancy or conditions like gestational diabetes. Researchers tested 117 women six years after pregnancy and found no significant differences in blood vessel function between those with normal blood sugar and those with glucose intolerance. This is important because it suggests that women with a history of glucose issues in pregnancy may not show early signs of blood vessel problems, despite having a higher risk for heart disease later on. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly women who experience glucose intolerance during pregnancy.

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This study looked at how older adults interact with different types of notifications from assisted living technology, such as visual screens, sounds, touch, and smells. The researchers found that while the way information was presented didn’t greatly change how disruptive or demanding it felt for users, some methods worked better for accurately delivering information. This research highlights the importance of using various types of notifications to make assisted living technology more effective for older adults. Who this helps: Older adults relying on assisted living technology.

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This study focused on a 50-year-old woman who experienced severe kidney pain and was found to have a rare condition called Mullerianosis, which involved abnormal tissue growth affecting her bladder and kidneys. After surgery to remove the mass, hormone treatment was started, resulting in some improvement as the mass shrank. This is significant because it helps doctors recognize and manage a rarely diagnosed condition that can cause significant pain and urinary issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with Mullerianosis and healthcare providers treating similar cases.

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This study looked for specific genetic locations linked to severe depression in families with a history of the condition. Researchers analyzed data from 839 families with 971 pairs of siblings who both suffered from severe depression and found a significant link to a region on chromosome 3, specifically at a marker known as D3S1515, with strong support indicating this link (a LOD score of 4.0). This discovery is important because it identifies a new genetic factor related to severe depression, which could help in understanding and treating this mental health issue. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from severe depression and the doctors treating them.

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This research looked at a new treatment approach called focal therapy for men with early-stage, low-risk prostate cancer. It found that while this method may effectively target tumors while preserving important bodily functions, there are significant challenges, such as difficulties in accurately diagnosing the cancer and monitoring treatment results. Overall, focal therapy shows promise but needs more rigorous testing to ensure it is safe and effective before it becomes a regular treatment option. Who this helps: This benefits men diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer and their doctors.

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This study checked how urologists were performing prostate biopsies compared to the latest guidelines from March 2009. Out of the 298 specialists surveyed, 78% preferred a needle biopsy done with ultrasound, but many still used varying PSA levels to decide when to perform the biopsy. The findings show that many doctors weren't following the latest recommendations, which can negatively impact patient care. Who this helps: Patients undergoing prostate biopsies.

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This study looked at how depression and migraines, particularly those with aura and without aura, are related in families. Researchers found that migraine with aura and migraine without aura are different forms of the same underlying condition, with migraine with aura being more severe. Understanding this connection helps in treating patients who have both conditions, as it highlights that they may share a common cause. Who this helps: This helps patients who suffer from migraines and depression, as well as the doctors treating them.