Jessie R Lavoie

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This study looked at the use of Aquablation therapy for men with urinary issues caused by an enlarged prostate, performing the procedure in a day-surgery setting without an overnight stay. After three months, the treatment significantly improved patients' symptoms, with their scores dropping from an average of 22 to 9, and they experienced minimal complications, with only 1% facing serious issues. The study also found that using Aquablation in this setting saved an average of $1,800 per case compared to traditional hospital procedures, making it a more affordable option. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia, as well as healthcare providers looking for cost-effective treatments.

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This study examined genetic changes in the androgen receptor (AR) gene in men with advanced prostate cancer that is resistant to hormone therapy. Researchers analyzed DNA samples from over 1,700 patients and found that 84% had changes in the AR gene, which influence how the cancer responds to treatment. This understanding helps identify which patients may benefit from specific therapies and highlights the complexity of cancer treatment resistance. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced prostate cancer and their doctors, enabling more tailored treatment approaches.

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This research paper looks at inflammation, which is the body’s natural reaction to injury or infection, and specifically how it affects the kidneys. The authors discuss the different molecules and cells involved in the inflammation process and emphasized that kidneys are particularly sensitive to both infection and injury. Understanding these processes is important because it helps in developing better treatments for kidney conditions caused by inflammation. Who this helps: This helps patients with kidney diseases and doctors treating them.

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This study focused on improving a method for preparing samples to clearly visualize tiny structures called extracellular vesicles (EVs) using a technique called transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The researchers developed a new staining process that uses two special chemicals, resulting in clearer images and better preservation of the EV shapes while reducing unwanted background noise. Their optimized method provides consistent, high-quality results, which can help researchers more accurately study these important cellular components. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying cell biology and related fields.

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This study looked at how certain types of stem cells, called mesenchymal stromal cells, turn into sarcomas, a type of cancer. Researchers found that a protein called ALDH1A3 increased in these transformed cells, while another protein, CD99, decreased. Specifically, ALDH1A3 was up by significant amounts in cancerous cells, while CD99 was down in both early and advanced stages of the disease. Understanding these changes in protein levels could help develop new treatments for sarcoma. Who this helps: This helps patients with sarcoma by providing new targets for potential therapies.

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This study looked at how well blood tests that detect cancer DNA (called ctDNA) work compared to traditional tissue biopsies in identifying changes in genes that can be targeted in advanced bladder cancer. They found that ctDNA testing matched the results of tissue tests 90% of the time and was able to find additional targetable gene changes in some patients, while showing that treatment with the drug erdafitinib can lead to a median survival without disease progression of 7.5 months. This matters because using ctDNA tests can make it easier to identify more patients who might benefit from targeted treatments, even when tissue samples are hard to get. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced bladder cancer who might gain access to targeted therapies.

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This study looked at whether finding bacteria in a tracheal wash (a fluid sample from a horse's airway) is linked to lung infections or inflammation in horses with asthma. Researchers examined 31 horses and found that many horses with asthma (8 out of 13 with severe asthma and 6 out of 9 with mild asthma) tested positive for bacteria in their tracheal wash, but this did not mean they had infections or more inflammation in their lungs. This matters because it suggests that testing for bacteria may not be necessary for treating asthma in horses, so vets might reconsider how they prescribe antibiotics for these animals. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners managing equine asthma.

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This study looked at how well a new breathing test called oscillometry can detect lung issues in horses with mild to moderate equine asthma (MEA) compared to healthy horses. Researchers tested 37 horses and found that measures of lung function indicated significant differences between healthy horses and those with MEA, particularly in certain breathing behaviors, with a sensitivity of 86.4% and specificity of 66.7% for a key measurement. These findings are important because they show that oscillometry could be a helpful, non-invasive tool for diagnosing equine asthma. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and horse owners by providing a better method for diagnosing equine asthma.

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The study compared two methods for detecting equine herpesvirus 5 (EHV-5) in horses: traditional nasal swabs and handmade foam cubes. Researchers tested samples from 9 horses using both methods and found that overall, both techniques showed moderate agreement; 27% of samples were positive or suspect, but the swabs were more reliable, showing 18% strictly positive results compared to 11% with foam cubes. This matters because it confirms that the standard nasal swab method is still the best option for accurate detection of this virus, which is important for horse health management. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners.

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This study looked at whether increased blood vessel growth in the airways of horses with mild to moderate asthma is linked to the growth of smooth muscle cells in those airways. Researchers found that in horses with mild to moderate asthma, there was a significant correlation (0.73) between the number of bronchial blood vessels and the growth of smooth muscle cells, but no significant differences were found compared to healthy horses. This is important because it shows that even in less severe forms of asthma, changes in blood vessel growth can still be related to airway narrowing, helping us better understand how to manage this condition. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners managing horses with asthma.

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Researchers built a model of a quantum computer called Aurora using 35 photonic chips to test how well it works. They connected these chips with fiber optics and managed to create a large entangled state involving 86.4 billion modes. This study is significant because it demonstrates the essential features needed for a reliable quantum computer that could eventually tackle practical problems. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers working in quantum computing technology.

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This study looked at how to protect parenteral nutrition (PN) from light exposure to reduce harmful peroxide levels, which can harm preterm infants' health. Researchers found that using a new method to shield multivitamins led to a 44% reduction in peroxide levels in lab tests and significantly decreased urinary peroxide levels in extremely preterm infants during the first week of life. This is important because lowering these toxic substances may help prevent serious lung problems in these vulnerable babies. Who this helps: Preterm infants receiving parenteral nutrition.

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This study looked at ways to manage waste from hatcheries by using fermentation, which can help improve the waste's safety and smell. Researchers found that when they added a certain amount of whey to the waste, it significantly improved the fermentation process, reducing harmful bacteria and bad odors. For example, after 7 days of fermentation with 15 to 35% lactose, harmful bacteria like E. coli were reduced to undetectable levels, and the acidic content increased, which is good for keeping the waste safe for use in animal feed. Who this helps: This helps farmers and companies that raise black soldier flies for animal feed by making waste management safer and more efficient.

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The study looked at how the Children's Oral Health Initiative (COHI) affected the dental health of First Nations and Inuit children aged 0 to 7 in Atlantic Canada, Saskatchewan, and Ontario from 2006 to 2016. It found that over 80,000 children participated, and while the overall dental health scores (indicating decayed, extracted, and filled teeth) didn't show significant improvement, regions like Atlantic Canada saw a reduction in dental decay scores, while Ontario and Saskatchewan had slight increases. This matters because it indicates that preventive dental services are reaching these children, which can help improve their oral health over time. Who this helps: This benefits First Nations and Inuit children and their families by improving access to important dental care services.

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This study explored the role of a protein called MARCKS in horses with asthma, which mimics severe asthma in humans. The researchers found that horses with asthma had higher levels of MARCKS protein in their lung cells compared to healthy horses. When they blocked MARCKS in lab experiments, it reduced a specific harmful response in immune cells but did not affect certain inflammatory signals. Understanding MARCKS could lead to new treatments for people suffering from severe asthma. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe asthma and their doctors.

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This study looked at how exposure to inorganic arsenic affects the genetic stability of human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSCs), which are important for tissue repair. Researchers found that exposing hMSCs to arsenic for 48 hours caused damage to the cells, but this exposure did not make them more susceptible to further damage from other harmful substances. This matters because it shows that hMSCs can be a valuable tool for testing the safety of chemicals and helps us understand how arsenic can cause damage at the genetic level. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working on toxicity testing and regenerative medicine.

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This study looked at how healthcare providers view using a caries risk assessment tool to help prevent tooth decay in Indigenous children in Manitoba. Researchers found several challenges that make it hard to use this tool, including limited time and training, lack of transportation to dental care, and low parental interest due to insurance issues. Despite these obstacles, providers were eager to learn more about preventing early childhood cavities, indicating that this tool could significantly improve oral health care for these children. Who this helps: This helps Indigenous children and their families by improving access to dental care.

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This study looked at a new way to gather microalgae called P. kessleri for use in biofuels, which can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Researchers found that by using a specific surfactant and salt, they could collect over 86% of the algae in one type of system and more than 90% in a different setup. This is significant because it offers a more efficient and cost-effective method for harvesting algae, making it easier to produce cleaner energy. Who this helps: This benefits energy companies and researchers focused on renewable energy solutions.

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This study looked at how to evaluate HER2/ERBB2 genetic changes in patients with advanced bladder cancer by analyzing both blood samples (ctDNA) and tumor tissues. Researchers found that 16% of blood samples and 29% of tissue samples showed significant HER2 alterations, but there was a high degree of variability in results between different methods, with an agreement rate of only 64% for certain tests. This matters because understanding these genetic changes can help improve treatment options for patients as new therapies targeting HER2 are developed. Who this helps: Patients with metastatic urothelial cancer.

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This study looked at how a specific process in cells called SUMOylation affects osteoarthritis (OA), a common and painful joint disease in older people. The researchers found that in cartilage samples from 27 OA patients, there was a significant increase in a protein called Prohibitin (PHB1) in the nucleus of cells, which was linked to higher levels of SUMO proteins. This nuclear accumulation of PHB1 contributes to the decline in cartilage health and the progression of OA. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with osteoarthritis by highlighting potential new targets for diagnosis and treatment.

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This study looked at a rare form of tuberculosis called tuberculous pericarditis (TBP), which can affect the lining around the heart. A case was reported involving a 29-year-old Indian man who had symptoms like fever and weight loss, and imaging showed fluid around his heart. After receiving treatment, he improved significantly, highlighting the need for doctors to quickly identify TBP in patients with fluid around the heart to prevent serious complications. Who this helps: This helps doctors in diagnosing and treating patients with pericardial effusion.

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This study looked at how bacteria in horses at a specialized hospital developed resistance to antibiotics over the last 40 years. It found that from 2020 to 2022, five out of six types of bacteria showed growing resistance to at least one antibiotic, with notably increasing resistance to the antibiotic enrofloxacin. This is concerning because some of these bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics that are very important for treating human infections, even though penicillin is still effective for some horse infections. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians, especially those treating horses.

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This study looked at how systemic racism impacts kidney health among First Nations peoples, specifically in remote communities in Manitoba. Researchers analyzed health data from over 12,000 First Nations individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) from 2006 to 2019 and found that those living in communities with Nursing Stations plus additional Indigenous programs were significantly more likely to receive necessary follow-up care and tests for their kidney health. For instance, they were 37% more likely to have serum creatinine tests than those in communities with fewer healthcare resources. Why this matters: Addressing systemic barriers can lead to better health outcomes for First Nations communities, particularly in reducing premature deaths from kidney disease. Who this helps: This research benefits First Nations patients and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how different types of biochar, made from spruce wood and varying in properties like carbon content and particle size, can improve the digestion of food waste without oxygen. The researchers found that using biochar produced at the highest energy level (1750 Watts) and the largest amount (30 grams per liter) cut the time before digestion started by nearly 60% and achieved 91.5% of the usual methane production in just 35 days. This is important because it means we can make the process of converting food waste into energy faster and more efficient. Who this helps: This helps waste management companies and renewable energy producers.

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This study looked at what training non-dental healthcare providers need to help identify and prevent tooth decay in Indigenous children under six in Canada. Researchers found that these providers needed guidance in four key areas: how to screen for tooth decay, use risk assessment tools, apply fluoride treatments, and document referrals. They also highlighted the necessity of culturally sensitive training and found that a mix of in-person and online learning would work best for providers, especially since those in urban areas prefer a blended approach while rural providers lean toward online training. Who this helps: This study helps healthcare providers who work with Indigenous children by providing them with the necessary skills and tools to improve dental care.

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This study explored ways to better integrate a tool for assessing the risk of cavities in Indigenous preschoolers’ healthcare in Manitoba, Canada, based on feedback from primary care providers who aren't dentists. The researchers gathered insights from 50 participants and identified four key areas for improvement: better training for healthcare providers, building trust with Indigenous families, creating accessible educational materials, and advocating for policy changes to support these efforts. These findings are important because addressing oral health in Indigenous children can help reduce disparities and improve their overall health. Who this helps: This helps Indigenous children and their families who need better oral health care and support.

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This study focused on how police officers respond to individuals facing mental health crises and aimed to create a tool to improve their de-escalation skills. The resulting tool, called the De-escalating Persons in Crisis Competencies Tool (DePICT), includes 14 assessment items that evaluate an officer's ability to safely manage these high-stress situations. This is important because better training can help reduce the use of force by police during mental health crises, ultimately leading to safer outcomes for individuals in distress. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing mental health crises and the police officers responding to them.

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This study looked at how a protein called GPX1 affects the growth and aggressiveness of myxoid liposarcoma, a type of cancer. Researchers found that higher levels of GPX1 led to more aggressive tumor behaviors, with tumors showing an increase in growth and ability to form new tumors when GPX1 was overexpressed. Specifically, when GPX1 was removed, tumor growth decreased significantly. These findings could help in creating better treatments for patients with sarcomas that are more aggressive. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients, especially those with sarcomas.

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This study looked at how light exercise affects lung function in horses with severe asthma. The researchers found that a 25-minute walking and trotting session significantly reduced lung resistance by about 50%, improving breathing after exercise. This finding is important because it suggests that regular light exercise could help manage severe equine asthma, potentially reducing the need for more drastic measures like euthanasia. Who this helps: This helps horses with severe asthma and their owners.

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Researchers studied how genetic testing is currently being used to diagnose pediatric sarcomas, a type of cancer. They found that out of 46 medical professionals surveyed, many rely on traditional testing methods, with 87% using a technique called fluorescence in situ hybridization, while newer methods like genome sequencing are less commonly used. The study highlights the need for standardized testing guidelines, especially when there is limited tissue available for testing, which is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare professionals treating children with sarcomas.

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This research looked at how to provide better nutrition support for children using feeding tubes, specifically temporary nasogastric tubes and longer-lasting enteral feeding tubes. The study found that creating a coordinated care program for managing these tubes improved patient care and health outcomes. For example, implementing specific clinical guidelines helped families and healthcare providers better navigate the complex healthcare system, leading to enhanced experiences for patients. Who this helps: Patients with feeding tubes and their families benefit from improved care and support.

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This study looked at whether a portable device, called the Qubit 4 fluorometer, can accurately measure a substance called cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the airways of horses with severe asthma compared to those with mild asthma and healthy horses. The researchers found that horses with severe asthma had significantly higher cfDNA levels—about 2.8 times more than healthy horses and 1.4 times more than those with mild asthma. This is important because high levels of cfDNA could indicate severe asthma, allowing for easier diagnosis and the possibility of developing new treatments. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and horse owners dealing with severe asthma in horses.

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This study looked at 159 children aged 18 to 24 months who have congenital heart disease (CHD) to understand how many of them have feeding problems and what might be causing these issues. It found that 58% of these children had feeding disorders, with 41% of those who fed orally still affected despite not relying on tubes. These challenges highlight the need for tailored feeding and nutrition plans to support the growth and development of these children. Who this helps: This helps pediatricians and caregivers of children with congenital heart disease.

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This study looked at how certain natural compounds, quercetin and luteolin, can be combined with a common cancer drug (paclitaxel) to improve treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The researchers found that this combination reduced the presence of cancer stem cells (which can make cancer relapse more likely) and improved the immune response in animal models, showing a promising approach to making existing therapies more effective. This matters because it could lead to new and more effective treatment options for TNBC patients who currently have limited therapies available. Who this helps: Patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

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This study compared two medications, salbutamol and hyoscine butylbromide (HBB), used to help horses with severe asthma breathe better. The researchers found that both drugs effectively improved lung function, but salbutamol worked longer—maintaining its effect for up to 180 minutes, while HBB's effects faded within 30 minutes. Additionally, HBB caused a notable increase in heart rate and decreased gut sounds, which were not observed with salbutamol, indicating that salbutamol may be the safer option for managing asthma in horses. Who this helps: This helps horses with severe asthma and their veterinarians.

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This study looks at equine asthma in horses, which shows different signs and symptoms in different animals. Researchers found that by understanding the different types of asthma in horses, they can create tailored treatments, similar to how human medicine works. This matters because it can lead to more effective treatments for horses, improving their health and quality of life. Who this helps: This helps horses suffering from asthma and their veterinarians.

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This study looks at how the ideas of philosopher Félix Guattari can change the way we think about nursing and healthcare. The researchers found that understanding "subjectivity"—how individuals experience and interact with their social and institutional environments—can empower nurses and improve patient care by breaking down traditional hierarchies and fostering collaboration. This approach is particularly relevant for addressing contemporary challenges in Quebec's healthcare system. Who this helps: This benefits nurses and healthcare professionals, enhancing their ability to provide better care and support to patients.

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This study looked at how Caco-2 cells, which are often used in research to model the intestinal lining, change when exposed to butyrate, a substance that helps support gut health. The researchers found that butyrate not only speeds up the development of these cells but also enhances protein functions that are important for interactions between the body and gut bacteria. This matters because it helps improve the tools used to study how the gut microbiome affects health and disease. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying gut health and potential treatments for gastrointestinal diseases.

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This study examined a unique heart defect called a Gerbode defect, which developed in a 73-year-old man after a serious infection in his heart. Doctors first found out he had a problem due to high blood pressure in his lungs and after further testing, they confirmed the defect and a related issue in the aorta. Quick identification of this rare condition was crucial, as it allowed the patient to undergo surgery that could prevent more serious heart damage. Who this helps: This benefits patients with complicated heart conditions and their doctors, aiding in timely diagnosis and treatment.

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This study looked at health and wellbeing programs designed for Inuit youth in Canada, particularly in urban areas like Winnipeg, where many Inuit youth live. It found that while there are some programs created with input from Inuit culture, it's challenging to find detailed evaluations of their effectiveness and many existing programs are based outside urban environments. This research is important because it helps to identify what kinds of support are needed to create better health programs tailored to the unique needs of Inuit youth. Who this helps: Inuit youth and the organizations that develop programs for their health and wellbeing.

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This study explored how to improve health research by incorporating Indigenous perspectives and methodologies alongside traditional Western methods. The researchers created an 8-step process for conducting scoping reviews that actively involves Indigenous peoples and their knowledge throughout the research. This approach not only enhances the research process but also ensures that findings are relevant and useful for Indigenous communities. Who this helps: This benefits Indigenous communities and researchers by ensuring their voices are included in health research.

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This study examined a new testing method that measures how well natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles (NK-EVs) can kill cancer cells, specifically looking at leukemia and breast cancer cells. The researchers found that their method, using a resazurin dye, was very sensitive and reliably showed how effective NK-EVs were at reducing cancer cell viability, with a strong correlation to known cancer-fighting factors. This matters because it provides a more accurate way to assess the potential of NK-EVs as cancer treatments, leading to better therapeutic strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer by supporting the development of effective biotherapeutic treatments.

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This study looked at improving the way we purify exosomes, which are tiny particles important for drug delivery and other medical applications. Researchers developed peptide ligands that capture exosomes from various cell types and found they could achieve high purity and yield—up to 80% and a reduction of unwanted proteins by 50-fold. This is significant because better purification methods make exosome-based treatments more effective and safer. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and companies working on exosome-based therapies and treatments.

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This study focused on developing a method to produce and isolate tiny particles derived from natural killer (NK) cells, which can target and kill cancer cells. The researchers created a system that can efficiently produce large amounts of these particles under safe and controlled conditions, allowing for consistent quality. They demonstrated that their approach can generate high-purity NK cell-derived particles that are effective against cancer cells in tests. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by potentially improving treatment options.

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The study focused on how different social sciences can help improve pandemic preparedness in Alaska, especially in light of lessons learned from COVID-19. Researchers gathered insights from various disciplines and Indigenous communities to identify important areas for future research, such as the importance of food security and understanding local risks. This work is vital because it lays the groundwork for better responses to future health crises that align with the unique needs and experiences of Alaskans. Who this helps: This benefits patients and communities in Alaska, as well as local health officials and policymakers.

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This study looked at how virtual reality (VR) training can help police officers improve their skills in handling mental health crises. Ten officers underwent a short VR training session that simulated a crisis situation, which revealed that their heart rates changed significantly, indicating they experienced heightened stress. The officers also expressed positive views about the VR training, suggesting it could enhance their decision-making and stress management in real-life situations. Who this helps: This benefits police officers and improves their ability to manage mental health crises effectively.

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This study looked at how Inuit people in Manitoba use mental health services. Researchers found that between 20% to 33% of all medical appointments for Inuit were related to mental health, but hospitalization rates for mental health issues were lower compared to other local residents. This indicates that, despite needing mental health care, Inuit are not fully utilizing available services, which tend to follow a Western approach that may not meet their unique needs. Who this helps: This helps Inuit patients seeking mental health support.

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This study looked at how different materials for reactors affect the production of syngas, which is a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide used to create fuels. Researchers found that using Inconel as the reactor material significantly improved the final gas mixture, achieving hydrogen to carbon monoxide ratios of up to 1.84 with a 95% conversion rate of methane and a 76% conversion rate of carbon monoxide, while stainless steel performed much worse. This matters because improving the efficiency of syngas production can lead to better fuel synthesis and more sustainable energy sources. Who this helps: This helps fuel producers and energy companies looking for more effective methods to create renewable energy.

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This study looked at the vitamin D levels in horses with asthma compared to healthy horses to see if there was a difference. Researchers measured the vitamin D in 45 horse blood samples and found no significant difference in levels among healthy horses and those with mild, moderate, or severe asthma. Specifically, the average vitamin D levels were around 57.9 nmol/L for healthy horses, 55.6 nmol/L for those with mild or moderate asthma, and 64.6 nmol/L for those with severe asthma, indicating that vitamin D does not appear to be a key factor in equine asthma. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners understand that vitamin D levels are not a concern in managing equine asthma.