Dr. Jennings studies various aspects of healthcare, particularly how to better support Indigenous populations and patients with chronic health conditions. His research includes developing medication management services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia, which helps improve their adherence to treatments and reduces serious medication-related issues. He also explores treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, particularly with IL-23 inhibitors that help patients stay in remission with fewer side effects. Additionally, he analyzes healthcare access, surgical training, and public trust in health measures, providing insights that can lead to better healthcare delivery and patient experiences.
Key findings
Participants in a medication management program had a decrease in serious medication-related problems from an average of 4.11 to 3.85 every 6 months.
In patients with moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease, IL-23 inhibitors showed improved remission rates compared to older treatments, with fewer side effects.
Of 31,472 hospitalizations for heart-related issues among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, 11,469 were potentially preventable due to medication issues.
Only 1.4 vascular surgeons exist per 100,000 people in the US, with some states lacking training programs altogether, highlighting a critical shortage.
2.4% of patients diagnosed with venous thromboembolism were found to have cancer within six months, which underscores the importance of recognizing this as a potential early warning sign.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Jennings study Indigenous health issues?
Yes, he focuses on healthcare challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly in medication management and cardiac care.
What treatments has Dr. Jennings researched?
He has researched IL-23 inhibitors for inflammatory bowel disease and developed programs to improve medication adherence among Indigenous populations.
Is Dr. Jennings' work relevant to patients with chronic diseases?
Absolutely, he works on improving management for chronic conditions like heart disease and inflammatory bowel disease, helping patients achieve better health outcomes.
What is the significance of trust in health systems according to Dr. Jennings' research?
His research emphasizes that trust in health institutions significantly affects people's willingness to get vaccinated and can improve public health during crises.
How can Dr. Jennings' work help with healthcare accessibility?
His studies on surgical training and healthcare distribution aim to identify gaps and improve access to necessary surgical care for underserved populations.
Publications in plain English
A study of a medication review service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people () in Australia.
2026
Australian journal of general practice
Wheeler AJ, Spinks JM, Hu J, Kelly F, Ware RS +10 more
Plain English The study looked at a special medication management service designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. It found that participants experienced a slight decrease in serious medication-related problems, going from an average of 4.11 to 3.85 problems every 6 months, and there were improvements in how well they followed their medication plans. This service helps patients manage their conditions better and engage more with their healthcare.
Who this helps: This helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients managing chronic health conditions.
'Follow the science': Popular trust in scientific experts during the coronavirus pandemic.
2025
Public understanding of science (Bristol, England)
Seyd B, Hamm JA, Jennings W, McKay L, Valgarðsson V +1 more
Plain English This research looked at how people trust scientific experts during the coronavirus pandemic and what factors influence that trust. The study found that people's trust in scientists is shaped by their perceived qualities and behaviors, as well as how they compare scientists to politicians. Understanding these dynamics is important because trust in scientific guidance is crucial for public health decisions.
Who this helps: This helps patients and the general public who rely on scientific advice during health crises.
The Geographic Distribution of Vascular Surgeons and Trainees by State in 2023.
2025
Annals of vascular surgery
Henning N, Nsa W, Edmonds J, Nguyen AM, Abadi A +10 more
Plain English The study looked at how many vascular surgeons and training positions are available in each state across the U.S. in 2023. It found that there is about 1.4 vascular surgeons for every 100,000 people but some states, like Arkansas and North Dakota, have as few as 0.4 surgeons per 100,000 people, and 8 states have no training programs at all. This matters because more training opportunities in states that lack surgeons could help fix the shortage and better meet patient needs.
Who this helps: Patients needing vascular surgical care.
Potentially preventable medication-related hospitalisations with cardiovascular disease of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Queensland, 2013-2017: a retrospective cohort study.
2025
The Medical journal of Australia
Spinks J, Mihala G, Jennings W, Ware RS, Kalisch Ellett LM +2 more
Plain English This study looked at hospital visits by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Queensland between 2013 and 2017 to find out how many were related to medication issues that could have been avoided. Out of 31,472 hospitalizations for heart-related problems, 11,469 were found to be potentially preventable; for example, 55% of congestive heart failure cases involved patients who had a history of heart disease but were not on the right medications. This information is important because it highlights the need for better medication management to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and deaths, which often come with high costs, averaging over $4,300 each.
Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by promoting safer medication practices.
Interleukin-23 Inhibitors for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Pivotal Trials and Practical Considerations.
2025
Current gastroenterology reports
Rotondo-Trivette S, Jennings W, Fudman D
Plain English This study looked at a type of medication called IL-23 inhibitors, which are used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The results showed that these medications are effective in helping patients achieve and maintain remission, even if they haven't responded well to other treatments before. They also have fewer side effects compared to older drugs, making them a safer option for treating moderate-to-severe IBD, especially Crohn's disease, where they seem to work better than another drug called ustekinumab.
Who this helps: Patients with moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease.
Work-based feedback conversations with GP teachers.
2023
The clinical teacher
Sturman NJ, MItchell B, Jennings W, Kelly M, O'Reilly JM +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how medical students and their teachers discuss feedback during clinical training. Researchers recorded 20 conversations and found that while teachers thought they were effectively helping students reflect on their performance, students struggled to guide these discussions and often focused on general skills instead of specific cases. Despite this, students were able to identify important learning points and appreciated positive feedback, which helped boost their confidence.
Who this helps: This benefits medical students and their teachers by improving the feedback process in practical training settings.
Trust and vaccine hesitancy during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-national analysis.
2023
Vaccine: X
Jennings W, Valgarðsson V, McKay L, Stoker G, Mello E +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how trust affects people's willingness to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in 113 countries. It found that trust in government significantly influences vaccine hesitancy, with people who trust their health institutions being more likely to get vaccinated. For example, higher trust in health institutions led to a noticeable decrease in hesitancy. This is important because building trust in governments and health systems can help improve vaccination rates and protect public health.
Who this helps: This helps patients and public health officials working to increase vaccination rates.
Vascular Surgery Training Positions and Applicant 10-Year Trends with Consideration for Further Expansion.
2023
Annals of vascular surgery
Jayroe H, Weaver L, Velazquez G, Nelson P, Jennings W +5 more
Plain English Researchers looked at the training positions for vascular surgeons in the U.S. from 2012 to 2022. They found that the number of residency training spots increased from 161 to 202, and total applicants rose from 213 to 311, but many applicants still couldn't find a position—25 for fellowships and 84 for residencies in 2022. This matters because there is a growing shortage of vascular surgeons, and without more training spots, it will be hard to meet the increasing demand for these specialists.
Who this helps: This helps patients who need vascular surgery care.
Better cardiac care - the patient experience - a qualitative study.
2023
International journal for equity in health
Jennings W, Egert S, Fisher C, Renouf S, Bryce V +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how a new model of care for cardiac patients who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander at a Brisbane hospital affected their experiences. Researchers found that building strong relationships between patients and Aboriginal staff members improved care, although they noted that support for families after hospital discharge needs better attention. By listening to patients and families, the study highlighted how important it is to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to help meet the specific health needs of these communities.
Who this helps: This helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families.
Plain English This study examined how the physical demands on high school basketball players, such as their movement and effort during games, relate to their performance throughout a competitive season. Researchers measured various load metrics during 23 games, finding that, on average, players had a PlayerLoad of 457 units and a total of about 43 jumps per game. They discovered that higher PlayerLoad was linked to scoring more points, indicating that players who exerted themselves more tended to perform better.
Who this helps: This information benefits coaches and athletes, helping them understand how training loads affect their performance.
Kempe K, Nelson PR, Mushtaq N, Kim H, Zamor K +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how successfully doctors can create a type of blood vessel connection (called an arteriovenous fistula) for American Indian patients who need dialysis, a procedure for kidney failure. Out of 235 patients, 62% had functioning connections after one year, dropping to 46% by the second year. Factors like being female, having obesity, or previous access attempts made these connections less successful, but overall, the study found that despite these challenges, doctors can still create effective connections for these patients.
Who this helps: This benefits American Indian patients needing dialysis and their healthcare providers.
Rapid Implementation of High-Frequency Wastewater Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2.
2022
ACS ES&T water
Holst MM, Person J, Jennings W, Welsh RM, Focazio MJ +4 more
Plain English Researchers studied how frequently testing wastewater for the SARS-CoV-2 virus could help track COVID-19 trends in communities. They found that taking samples 3 to 5 times a week (USGS samples) provided better insights into virus levels compared to the usual 1 to 2 times a week (NWSS samples). This approach is important because it offers more precise data during emergencies, helping to respond more effectively to outbreaks.
Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and communities by enabling faster responses to COVID-19 outbreaks.
Systematic scoping review of occupational health injuries and illnesses among Indigenous workers.
2022
Occupational and environmental medicine
Shannon B, Jennings W, Friedman L
Plain English This research reviewed studies about work-related injuries and illnesses among Indigenous workers in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada from 1970 to 2020. Out of 1,272 papers found, only 51 made the cut for this review, and less than a quarter specifically focused on Indigenous people. The findings highlight a serious lack of research on occupational health in these groups, showing the need for better data collection and more focused studies to help improve their working conditions.
Who this helps: This helps Indigenous workers and the healthcare professionals and policymakers working to support them.
Venous thromboembolism as the first sign of malignancy.
2022
Journal of vascular surgery. Venous and lymphatic disorders
Pandit V, Kempe K, Hanna K, Baab K, Jennings W +5 more
Plain English This study looked at the connection between venous thromboembolism (VTE)—which includes deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism—and undiagnosed cancer in patients. They analyzed data from over 116,000 patients with VTE and found that 2.4% (around 2,354 people) were diagnosed with cancer within six months of their VTE diagnosis. This is important because recognizing VTE as a potential sign of cancer could lead to earlier treatments and better outcomes for patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients by potentially leading to earlier cancer detection and treatment.
Modeling infection from SARS-CoV-2 wastewater concentrations: promise, limitations, and future directions.
2022
Journal of water and health
Soller J, Jennings W, Schoen M, Boehm A, Wigginton K +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how to estimate COVID-19 infection levels in communities by testing wastewater for virus traces. Researchers created models to understand how much virus is present in wastewater and found that infection levels were often higher than the number of reported cases, highlighting gaps in reporting. Accurate estimates of infections are crucial for making informed decisions about public health.
Who this helps: This helps public health officials and policymakers understand and manage community health during outbreaks.
Rapid review of five years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research in Australia - persisting under-representation of urban populations.
2021
Australian and New Zealand journal of public health
Jennings W, Spurling G, Shannon B, Hayman N, Askew D
Plain English This study looked at health research involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia over five years, focusing on where these populations live. Out of 1,258 research papers, only 190 (15%) were about Indigenous people in urban areas, compared to 563 (45%) in rural or remote areas, even though urban Indigenous populations face similar health issues. This matters because it highlights a significant gap in research that does not reflect the health needs of urban Indigenous communities, indicating a need for more focused studies and better funding in this area.
Who this helps: Urban Indigenous communities and public health officials planning services.
Plain English This study looked at why some people in the UK were hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine. It found that 43% of individuals who distrust vaccines and government are less likely to get vaccinated. People who believe in conspiracy theories and mainly get their information from social media are also more hesitant. This matters because addressing these issues could help increase vaccine acceptance and improve public health.
Who this helps: This helps patients and public health officials working to improve vaccination rates.
PROTOCOL: Effectiveness of parent-engagement programs to reduce truancy and juvenile delinquency: A systematic review.
2021
Campbell systematic reviews
Kethineni S, Frazier-Kouassi S, Shigemoto Y, Jennings W, Cardwell SM +3 more
Plain English This research reviewed how effective programs that involve parents in their children's education are at reducing school absenteeism and juvenile delinquency. The findings showed that these programs can significantly lower truancy rates for students aged 4 to 19, with notable improvements in different age groups and school settings. Understanding how to make these programs more effective is important because keeping children in school helps prevent future delinquent behavior.
Who this helps: This benefits children, especially those at risk of truancy and delinquency, as well as their families and schools.
Session Rating of Perceived Exertion (sRPE) Load and Training Impulse Are Strongly Correlated to GPS-Derived Measures of External Load in NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Athletes.
2021
Journal of functional morphology and kinesiology
Askow AT, Lobato AL, Arndts DJ, Jennings W, Kreutzer A +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how well athletes' own feelings of exertion during soccer sessions (called session rating of perceived exertion, or sRPE) matched up with actual physical activity measured by GPS devices in NCAA Division I women soccer players. The researchers found that the sRPE was very strongly linked to various measures of physical workload, especially during games, meaning that how hard players felt they worked corresponded with the total distance run and the number of accelerations. This is important because understanding this relationship can help coaches better tailor training and improve player performance.
Who this helps: This helps coaches and trainers optimize training plans for female soccer athletes.
Trust and the Coronavirus Pandemic: What are the Consequences of and for Trust? An Early Review of the Literature.
2021
Political studies review
Devine D, Gaskell J, Jennings W, Stoker G
Plain English This paper examines how trust between governments and the public affects responses to the coronavirus pandemic. It found that higher levels of trust are linked to better compliance with government measures and lower mortality rates, although the exact statistics weren't specified. Understanding this relationship is crucial for determining how government actions can influence public trust during health crises.
Who this helps: This benefits governments and public health officials working to improve pandemic responses.
Ultrasound evaluation of percutaneously created arteriovenous fistulae between radial artery and perforating vein at the elbow.
2020
The journal of vascular access
Franco G, Mallios A, Bourquelot P, Jennings W, Boura B
Plain English This study looked at a new type of connection called percutaneous arteriovenous fistulae (pAVFs) made between an artery and a vein in the elbow. Researchers found that the blood flow rates in these fistulas were similar to those in traditional surgically created wrist fistulas, with average flows of about 859 mL/min for pAVFs and 919 mL/min for the surgical ones. This is important because it shows that pAVFs can be as effective as surgical options, offering a less invasive alternative for patients needing hemodialysis access.
Who this helps: This helps patients needing dialysis by providing them with less invasive treatment options.
Feasibility for arteriovenous fistula creation with Ellipsys.
2020
The journal of vascular access
Franco G, Mallios A, Bourquelot P, Hebibi H, Jennings W +1 more
Plain English The study looked at how well a new method called Ellipsys can create access points for dialysis in patients needing their first access. Out of 100 patients evaluated, 63% were found suitable for the percutaneous method using Ellipsys, while only 30% qualified for a traditional surgical approach, with eligibility dropping to just 17% for patients over 70. This matters because it shows that a majority of patients may benefit from a less invasive option, especially the elderly, who have fewer surgical options due to anatomical limitations.
Who this helps: Patients needing dialysis access, especially older adults.
CDP-diacylglycerol, a critical intermediate in lipid metabolism.
2020
Chemistry and physics of lipids
Jennings W, Epand RM
Plain English This research focused on a substance called CDP-diacylglycerol (CDP-DAG), which is important for making fats in our bodies. The study found new ways to identify the enzymes that create CDP-DAG, which was previously difficult to do. This breakthrough improves our understanding of how fats are made and regulated in cells, which is crucial for maintaining good health.
Who this helps: Patients who have metabolic disorders or health conditions related to lipid metabolism.
Author Correction: Election polling errors across time and space.
2020
Nature human behaviour
Jennings W, Wlezien C
Plain English This paper discusses changes made to earlier research on how accurate election polls are over time and in different locations. The updated findings highlight specific inaccuracies in polling methods that can lead to wrong predictions about election outcomes. Understanding these errors is important for improving future polls and ensuring citizens have a clearer picture of election trends.
Who this helps: This helps voters, political analysts, and pollsters.
Covid-19 and the Blunders of our Governments: Long-run System Failings Aggravated by Political Choices.
2020
The Political quarterly
Gaskell J, Stoker G, Jennings W, Devine D
Plain English This paper studied how governments responded to the Covid-19 pandemic and identified major mistakes caused by deep-rooted problems in their systems. It found that many advanced democracies, including the UK, faced significant failures during the crisis, highlighting the UK’s particular vulnerabilities when it was crucial for government to act effectively. The authors argue for necessary reforms to strengthen government structures to better handle future crises.
Who this helps: This helps patients and the general public by advocating for stronger government responses in health emergencies.
High molecular weight adiponectin levels are inversely associated with adiposity in pediatric brain tumor survivors.
2020
Scientific reports
Ronsley R, Rassekh SR, Fleming A, Empringham B, Jennings W +6 more
Plain English This study looked at the levels of a substance called high molecular weight adiponectin in children who survived brain tumors, as this group is at greater risk for health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Researchers found that higher levels of this substance were linked to lower body fat, specifically showing a strong negative relationship with overall fat and fat around the waist. This is important because it suggests that measuring adiponectin could help identify kids at higher risk of health problems and guide efforts to prevent obesity and related diseases.
Who this helps: This helps pediatric brain tumor survivors and their healthcare providers.
Upper arm basilic vein elevation as a solution for forearm ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistulae with cannulation problems.
2019
The journal of vascular access
Mallios A, Jennings W, Costanzo A, Boura B, Combes M
Plain English This study looked at a surgical technique to improve access for dialysis in patients with a specific type of blood vessel connection called a ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistula, which was difficult to use for treatment. Researchers found that after moving the basilic vein in the upper arm, all three patients were able to reliably use their dialysis access within 3-4 weeks and did not need any further treatment over a follow-up period of up to 22 months. This matters because it helps resolve common problems that make dialysis difficult for patients with these specific blood vessel configurations.
Who this helps: Patients who need dialysis and have trouble with current access methods.
The Omega-3 Index in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Collegiate Football Athletes.
2019
Journal of athletic training
Anzalone A, Carbuhn A, Jones L, Gallop A, Smith A +11 more
Plain English This study looked at the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in college football players, which are important for heart and brain health. They found that 34% of the athletes had low omega-3 levels that put them at high risk for heart problems, and 66% were at intermediate risk, with none showing a healthy level. This means many football players may not be getting enough omega-3s, which could lead to cardiovascular issues later in life.
Who this helps: This information is valuable for athletes and their coaches, as well as healthcare providers working with sports teams.
Paraspinal muscle ladybird homeobox 1 (LBX1) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a cross-sectional study.
2019
The spine journal : official journal of the North American Spine Society
Jennings W, Hou M, Perterson D, Missiuna P, Thabane L +2 more
Plain English This study examined a gene called LBX1 and its role in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), a common spinal deformity in young people. Researchers analyzed muscle samples from 25 AIS patients during spinal surgery and found that the levels of LBX1 were similar on both the concave and convex sides of the spine, with no significant differences related to the patients' age, sex, or severity of scoliosis. Understanding how LBX1 affects AIS might help improve treatments for this condition in the future.
Who this helps: This helps patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and their doctors.
Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Score Predicts Development of First Episode of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients With Cirrhosis.
2019
Mayo Clinic proceedings
Khan R, Ravi S, Chirapongsathorn S, Jennings W, Salameh H +7 more
Plain English This study looked at whether the MELD score, a measure of liver health, can predict the risk of developing a serious infection called spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in patients with liver disease and fluid in the abdomen. The researchers found that patients with higher MELD scores had a significantly greater chance of getting SBP: the risk jumped from 11% for low scores (10 or below) to 93% for scores over 30. This matters because identifying patients at higher risk can help doctors provide better care and possibly prevent such infections.
Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease and doctors treating them.
A mechanism of banding failure in excessively dilated fistulas.
2018
The journal of vascular access
Mallios A, Lucas J, Jennings W
Plain English This study examined why some surgeries to restrict blood flow in enlarged arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) fail. It found that in four patients, the sutures used during the initial operation eroded into the blood vessel, causing the banding to lose effectiveness within six months. To fix this, the researchers recommended a second surgery that involves reshaping the fistula into a smaller size, which appears to work better for these enlarged vessels.
Who this helps: This helps patients with enlarged AVFs who require treatment for improved blood flow management.
Plain English This study looked at how different methods of collecting dust from HVAC filters affect the types and amounts of bacteria and fungi found in that dust. Researchers found that using a vacuum to collect dust captured more total DNA, bacteria, and fungi compared to using swabs or cutting samples, with vacuum samples showing a greater diversity of bacteria. This matters because it helps us understand which methods give better results when studying indoor air quality and its effects on health.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying indoor environments and helps improve air quality assessments for patients.
The power of talk and power in talk: a systematic review of Indigenous narratives of culturally safe healthcare communication.
2018
Australian journal of primary health
Jennings W, Bond C, Hill PS
Plain English This study looked at 65 research papers to understand how Indigenous people talk about their experiences with healthcare. It found that effective communication is crucial: when healthcare providers use simple, respectful language, it builds trust and encourages Indigenous people to engage with health services. This is important because better communication can lead to improved healthcare experiences and outcomes for Indigenous patients.
Who this helps: This helps Indigenous patients and healthcare providers.
Resection of puncture site necrosis over an arteriovenous fistula: Endoclamp use for preservation of cannulation sites.
2018
The journal of vascular access
Mallios A, Jennings W, Boura B, Costanzo A, Combes M
Plain English This study looked at a serious problem where the skin over an arteriovenous fistula (a site used for dialysis access) becomes damaged and can develop into necrosis, affecting patients who rely on this for kidney treatment. Researchers found that using a technique that involves temporarily blocking blood flow with a special balloon can help maintain the length of the fistula when removing damaged skin, allowing for better future access points. This matters because it helps avoid more complicated treatment methods like catheters, which can lead to additional issues for patients.
Who this helps: Patients who need dialysis and have skin issues over their arteriovenous fistulas.
Immunogenicity and safety of a second dose of a measles-mumps-rubella vaccine administered to healthy participants 7 years of age or older: A phase III, randomized study.
2018
Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics
Abu-Elyazeed R, Jennings W, Severance R, Noss M, Caplanusi A +2 more
Plain English This study examined how well a second dose of the MMR vaccine (which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella) works and its safety for healthy kids aged 7 and older who had already received at least one dose. Researchers found that this new vaccine, called MMR-RIT, produced strong immune responses, with over 98% of participants showing effective antibody levels, and experienced side effects similar to the standard vaccine. This is important because it shows that adding a second dose can help control outbreaks and better protect communities.
Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly children, by providing stronger immunity against these serious diseases.
Membrane curvature allosterically regulates the phosphatidylinositol cycle, controlling its rate and acyl-chain composition of its lipid intermediates.
2018
The Journal of biological chemistry
Bozelli JC, Jennings W, Black S, Hou YH, Lameire D +6 more
Plain English Researchers studied how the shape of cell membranes affects the activity of an enzyme called DGKϵ, which is involved in a key process in cell signaling. They found that DGKϵ works poorly on flat membranes but becomes much more active on membranes with a specific curved shape, significantly boosting its performance. This discovery is important because it reveals how the physical characteristics of cell membranes can influence enzyme behavior and cell signaling.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors better understand how cell signaling works, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases related to membrane function.
Validity and Reliability of a Commercially-Available Velocity and Power Testing Device.
2018
Sports (Basel, Switzerland)
Askow AT, Stone JD, Arndts DJ, King AC, Goto S +8 more
Plain English This study looked at a device that measures how quickly and powerfully someone can lift weights, specifically focusing on its accuracy and consistency. Researchers tested the device on nine trained men using heavy squats and found that it performed very well: it showed excellent reliability in its measurements with scores over 0.94, meaning it produces trustworthy data most of the time. This finding is important because it confirms that this tool can effectively track progress in strength training, helping to tailor workout programs.
Who this helps: This helps athletes and fitness trainers looking to optimize training results.
Plain English This study looked at how accurate election polls have been over time and across different countries. Researchers analyzed over 30,000 polls from 351 elections in 45 countries between 1942 and 2017, and found that while polling errors are common, they haven't become more frequent in recent years than in the past. Poll accuracy can change based on the political environment, which helps us understand when and why polls might be off.
Who this helps: This helps voters, analysts, and political strategists.
Expression, Purification, and Properties of a Human Arachidonoyl-Specific Isoform of Diacylglycerol Kinase.
2017
Biochemistry
Jennings W, Doshi S, Hota PK, Prodeus A, Black S +1 more
Plain English This study focused on a specific human enzyme called diacylglycerol kinase ε (DGKε), which plays a crucial role in regulating certain fats in cells. The researchers successfully purified this enzyme for the first time and confirmed it retains its function, although it loses activity when frozen and thawed unless protected by glycerol. Understanding how DGKε works is important because problems with this enzyme are linked to conditions like epilepsy and heart disease.
Who this helps: Patients with diseases related to DGKε dysfunction.
Perioperative ultrasound: a critical element in diagnosis and salvage of complex vascular access dysfunction.
2017
The journal of vascular access
Mallios A, Hebibi H, Jennings W
Plain English This study looked at how using ultrasound during surgery can help fix problems with blood access for dialysis patients. A 45-year-old man with two damaged blood vessels in his arm was treated using ultrasound to identify the best surgical approach, which allowed the doctors to successfully repair the access without needing to insert a catheter. The surgery restored normal blood flow for dialysis, making it usable right away.
Who this helps: Patients requiring dialysis.
The Decline in Diffuse Support for National Politics: The Long View on Political Discontent in Britain.
2017
Public opinion quarterly
Jennings W, Clarke N, Moss J, Stoker G
Plain English This study looked at how political discontent has changed in Britain over a long period. Researchers used different types of surveys and a special method to analyze public opinion over time. They found that political discontent is increasing, showing that more people are unhappy with the political system than in the past. This matters because it highlights a growing trend of dissatisfaction that can impact democracy and governance.
Who this helps: This helps policymakers and political leaders understand public sentiment and address issues leading to discontent.
Roles of specific lipid species in the cell and their molecular mechanism.
2016
Progress in lipid research
Kimura T, Jennings W, Epand RM
Plain English This research paper studied the role of different types of fats, called lipids, in cells and how they function. The scientists found that even small changes in the structure of lipids can lead to big differences in their roles in essential cellular processes such as signaling, transportation, and cell division. Understanding these lipid functions is important for advancing our knowledge in science and potential medical applications.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare professionals who focus on cell biology and related diseases.
Diacylglycerol Kinase-ε: Properties and Biological Roles.
2016
Frontiers in cell and developmental biology
Epand RM, So V, Jennings W, Khadka B, Gupta RS +1 more
Plain English This research focused on a specific enzyme called diacylglycerol kinase-ε (DGKε), which is unique because it interacts with a specific type of fat molecule in cells. The study revealed that mutations in this enzyme can lead to a condition known as atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS), which causes serious kidney problems, especially in infants; many of these patients face kidney failure by their late teens. Understanding DGKε's role in disease can help researchers find better treatments for aHUS and potentially other conditions like epilepsy and Huntington's disease.
Who this helps: Patients with atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome and related conditions.
Molecular properties of diacylglycerol kinase-epsilon in relation to function.
2015
Chemistry and physics of lipids
Jennings W, Doshi S, D'Souza K, Epand RM
Plain English This study looked at a specific enzyme called diacylglycerol kinase-epsilon (DGKε) that plays a role in how cells use a type of fat called diacylglycerol. Researchers found that removing a part of the enzyme didn't stop it from working, and it specifically acts on a certain type of diacylglycerol that includes an arachidonoyl group. Understanding how DGKε functions is important because problems with this enzyme are linked to various diseases.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with diseases linked to dysfunctional enzymes like DGKε.
When Arteriovenous Fistulas Are Too Deep: Options in Obese Individuals.
2015
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
Miles Maliska C, Jennings W, Mallios A
Plain English This study examined the challenges faced by obese patients who need arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for hemodialysis, especially when their blood vessels are too deep for traditional access. Out of 1,874 patients, 120 had to undergo additional surgeries due to deep cannulation sites, with most of them needing a procedure called lipectomy. The researchers found that after one year, 63% of all AVFs were still functioning, and those who had lipectomy had even better rates, with 78% still working at that time.
Who this helps: This research benefits obese patients needing dialysis and doctors managing their vascular access.
Crystal structures of the Toll/Interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domains from the Brucella protein TcpB and host adaptor TIRAP reveal mechanisms of molecular mimicry.
2014
The Journal of biological chemistry
Snyder GA, Deredge D, Waldhuber A, Fresquez T, Wilkins DZ +11 more
Plain English This study looked at how a bacterium called Brucella uses a protein named TcpB to trick the immune system by mimicking host proteins. Researchers found the specific structures of TcpB and a host protein called TIRAP, showing key differences that help TcpB block immune signals. Understanding these interactions is important because it reveals how bacteria can evade our immune responses, which could inform treatments for infections caused by Brucella and similar pathogens.
Who this helps: Patients with infections caused by Brucella and other similar bacteria.
Prevention of vascular access hand ischemia using the axillary artery as inflow.
2013
Journal of vascular surgery
Jennings W, Brown R, Blebea J, Taubman K, Messiner R
Plain English This study looked at a technique to help patients needing dialysis who are at risk of hand problems due to blocked blood vessels. Researchers used the axillary artery to create a new type of vascular access, successfully helping 30 patients aged 31 to 83 over three years, with no post-surgery complications related to hand ischemia. This approach resulted in 87% of patients still having functioning access after one year, especially when the cephalic vein was used, which led to better outcomes with fewer failures and less swelling in the arm.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe vascular disease who require hemodialysis.