Dr. Hansen's research primarily investigates the interactions between nitric oxide and pancreatic beta cells, which are critical for insulin production. He explores how nitric oxide can both harm and protect these cells, depending on its concentration. Additionally, he studies how beta cells respond to DNA damage, how they handle fatty acids, and how their repair mechanisms can be strengthened. By looking into these areas, he aims to develop new strategies to prevent or treat diabetes, particularly in patients who are at risk of developing type 1 diabetes or are living with type 2 diabetes.
Key findings
Nitric oxide reduces PI4P accumulation in beta cells, inhibiting the encephalomyocarditis virus and potentially preventing type 1 diabetes.
Without the protein SIRT3, beta cells lose Gadd45α levels by more than 50%, impairing their DNA repair abilities, which is critical for maintaining insulin production.
Nitric oxide reduces ATP levels in pancreatic beta cells, limiting their ability to take up glucose and effectively putting them into a dormant state.
At higher levels, nitric oxide inhibits the DNA damage response in beta cells while activating it at lower concentrations, revealing a distinct vulnerability in these cells compared to other cell types.
Cells lacking the CI-MPR protein are significantly more susceptible to damage from palmitate, indicating the importance of maintaining cellular waste disposal mechanisms in protecting insulin-producing cells.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Hansen study diabetes?
Yes, Dr. Hansen's research focuses on how to protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which is critical for diabetes treatment.
What treatments has Dr. Hansen researched?
He explores potential treatments that could protect beta cells from damage caused by molecules like nitric oxide and fatty acids.
Is Dr. Hansen's work relevant to patients at risk of type 1 diabetes?
Yes, his findings about how viral infections affect beta cells could help develop strategies to prevent type 1 diabetes.
How does nitric oxide impact pancreatic cells?
Nitric oxide can either protect or harm pancreatic beta cells, depending on its levels, affecting their ability to produce insulin and manage glucose.
What disease mechanisms does Dr. Hansen focus on?
He investigates how beta cells respond to stressors like nitric oxide, DNA damage, and fatty acid exposure, all of which are relevant to diabetes.
Publications in plain English
Preliminary Effectiveness of a Telehealth-Delivered Exercise Program in Older Adults Living With and Beyond Cancer: Retrospective Study.
2025
JMIR cancer
Dunston ER, Oza S, Bai Y, Newton M, Podlog L +5 more
Plain English This study looked at whether a telehealth exercise program could help older adults living with cancer improve their physical abilities. Out of 68 participants, those who completed the program showed an average increase of 2 chair stands and 2.85 push-ups in just 12 weeks, with nearly half exceeding the minimum improvement needed for meaningful change. This is important because it shows that remote exercise support can make a difference in the lives of older cancer patients, potentially helping them stay more active and independent.
Who this helps: This benefits older adults with cancer seeking to improve their physical health.
Feasibility and acceptability of the Comprehensive Oncology Rehabilitation and Exercise (CORE) clinical workflow algorithm in patients with newly diagnosed stage I-III breast cancer who undergo surgery as first-line treatment.
2025
Cancer
Simon LH, Saviers-Steiger C, Dunston ER, Galyean P, Kimball ER +14 more
Plain English This study looked at a new program called the Comprehensive Oncology Rehabilitation and Exercise (CORE) aimed at helping women recently diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer who are undergoing surgery. Out of 72 participants, 93% completed a necessary questionnaire to determine their exercise and rehabilitation needs, and 62% of those assigned to specific services completed their referral. These findings are important because they show that the CORE program is both doable and well-received, which can help improve support for women during their cancer treatment.
Who this helps: This benefits women diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer and their healthcare providers.
Lipopolysaccharide-induced cytokine signaling activates a temporal innate defense program and represses pancreatic β-cell identity.
2025
The Journal of biological chemistry
Bartosiak JT, Hansen PA, Schumacher EA, Harty KR, Stancill JS +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how cytokines, which are signaling molecules involved in immune responses, affect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas during an immune reaction triggered by a bacterial component. Researchers found that these cytokines quickly activate protective genes while reducing the factors that define pancreatic beta cells, but this effect only lasts about 24 hours. Understanding this process is important because it shows how the body can protect these crucial insulin-producing cells during infections rather than just focusing on the negative impacts of cytokines in diabetes.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type 1 diabetes and their doctors by providing insights into how to better protect insulin-producing cells.
Role of SIRT3 in the regulation of Gadd45α expression and DNA repair in β-cells.
2025
The Journal of biological chemistry
Naatz A, Bohl KS, Jones Lipinski RA, Nord JA, Gehant AL +3 more
Plain English This study examined the role of a protein called SIRT3 in helping beta cells, which produce insulin, repair their DNA after damage caused by nitric oxide. The researchers found that without SIRT3, the levels of a repair protein called Gadd45α drop significantly, leading to impaired DNA repair. Specifically, knocking down SIRT3 reduced Gadd45α levels by affecting DNA repair processes, which could be critical for maintaining healthy insulin production.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type 2 diabetes by providing insights that could improve treatments that protect insulin-producing cells.
Nitric oxide attenuates PI4P accumulation at the ER membrane to inhibit encephalomyocarditis virus replication selectively in β-cells.
2025
The Journal of biological chemistry
Gehant AL, Stafford JD, Hansen PA, Harty KR, Naatz A +1 more
Plain English This study examined how nitric oxide affects the replication of a specific virus that can trigger type 1 diabetes, known as the encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV). The researchers found that nitric oxide reduces a certain molecule in the cells (called phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate) which prevents the virus from replicating effectively in pancreatic beta-cells, the cells responsible for producing insulin. This is important because it reveals a potential way to protect these cells from viral damage, which could help prevent the onset of diabetes.
Who this helps: Patients at risk of developing type 1 diabetes.
Creatine supplementation and resistance training to preserve muscle mass and attenuate cancer progression (CREATINE-52): a protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial.
2024
BMC cancer
Coletta AM, Simon LH, Maslana K, Taylor S, Larson K +9 more
Plain English This study looks at how taking creatine while doing resistance training can help preserve muscle mass and improve health for men with advanced prostate cancer. Over a year, the study will compare muscle mass and health changes in 200 participants taking creatine and doing resistance training versus those using a placebo and resistance training. The goal is to enhance quality of life and support cancer treatments by addressing fatigue and muscle loss, which are common issues faced by these patients.
Who this helps: This helps men with metastatic prostate cancer.
Factors influencing engagement in hospital-based exercise oncology programs: A narrative review.
2023
PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation
Dunston ER, Mulibea PB, Chipman J, Zickmund S, Oza S +3 more
Plain English This study looked at why cancer survivors struggle to participate in exercise programs offered by hospitals, discovering that less than 15% meet recommended exercise levels. Out of 300 articles reviewed, they found that barriers included issues like accessibility and side effects from treatment, while having personalized programs and support from peers and staff helped encourage participation. Understanding these factors can help hospitals improve their exercise programs for cancer survivors, making it more likely for them to engage in beneficial physical activity.
Who this helps: This benefits cancer survivors looking for ways to stay active during and after treatment.
Plain English This research looked at how to safely use beneficial ingredients in infant formula since many U.S. babies, less than 25%, are not exclusively breastfed for the recommended six months. Experts from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) held a workshop to discuss and provide guidelines for assessing these ingredients in formula. This matters because better infant formulas can support the health of babies who need them.
Who this helps: Patients, specifically infants who rely on formula for nutrition.
β-cell-selective inhibition of DNA damage response signaling by nitric oxide is associated with an attenuation in glucose uptake.
2023
The Journal of biological chemistry
Yeo CT, Kropp EM, Hansen PA, Pereckas M, Oleson BJ +5 more
Plain English Researchers studied how nitric oxide (a molecule produced in the body) affects insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, and found that it shuts down the cells' ability to take in and process glucose (sugar) by depleting their energy supply. The nitric oxide specifically blocks the cells' energy-making machinery in their mitochondria, causing ATP (the cell's fuel) to drop so low that the cells can no longer absorb glucose, putting them into a dormant state. This matters because it reveals a unique vulnerability of pancreatic insulin cells compared to other cell types, which could help explain problems with blood sugar control and potentially lead to new treatments for diabetes.
Clinical and Demographic Factors Associated With Follow-Up in a Hospital-Based Exercise Oncology Program.
2022
Integrative cancer therapies
Dunston ER, Bai Y, Newton M, Podlog L, Walker D +4 more
Plain English This study looked at why some cancer survivors did not attend a follow-up appointment after a 12-week exercise program designed for people who have had cancer. Out of 849 participants, it found that survivors of multiple myeloma were more than twice as likely to skip the follow-up, while those with endometrial cancer were less likely to do so. Factors like being male, having immunotherapy treatment, being overweight, and living farther from the clinic were linked to not attending the follow-up.
Who this helps: This information benefits cancer survivors and healthcare providers by helping to improve attendance at important follow-up assessments.
Plain English The study focused on creating bright, glowing films by combining certain metals with organic compounds. Researchers found that using materials like terephthalic acid together with lanthanides, such as terbium and europium, led to films that emit colors from purple to red. This is important because these films could be used in various applications, such as better lighting or more vibrant displays.
Who this helps: This helps manufacturers and researchers in electronics and lighting industries.
Deletion of Thioredoxin Reductase Disrupts Redox Homeostasis and Impairs β-Cell Function.
2022
Function (Oxford, England)
Stancill JS, Hansen PA, Mathison AJ, Schmidt EE, Corbett JA
Plain English This study looked at how a specific protein, thioredoxin reductase, affects the health of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, known as beta cells. Researchers created mice that lacked this protein in their beta cells and found that, although these mice had reduced insulin secretion in response to sugar, their overall blood sugar levels stayed normal. The study showed that the energy balance in the cells changed – as they adjusted to the loss of the protein, they produced more protective genes but at the cost of their usual function.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and doctors working on diabetes treatments.
The impact of a hospital-based exercise oncology program on cancer treatment-related side effects among rural cancer survivors.
2021
Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
Coletta AM, Rose NB, Johnson AF, Moxon DS, Trapp SK +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how a hospital-based exercise program called POWER helped rural cancer survivors deal with side effects from their treatment. It found that survivors who participated showed significant improvements in their fitness levels (an increase of about 3.1 ml/kg/min) and physical function (increased by an average of 2.2 repetitions in a 30-second chair stand) and reported feeling less fatigue and better quality of life. This is important because it shows that structured exercise can effectively reduce the negative effects of cancer treatment and improve overall well-being for these patients.
Who this helps: This helps rural cancer survivors seeking to manage their treatment side effects.
Quinizarin: a large aromatic molecule well suited for atomic layer deposition.
2021
Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)
Hansen PA, Nilsen O
Plain English This study focused on quinizarin, a large dye molecule that can be used in a technique called atomic layer deposition (ALD) to create thin films for advanced materials. The researchers found that quinizarin has a low melting point (130 °C) and good reactivity, allowing them to deposit colored films that grow at a rate of 0.28 nanometers per cycle, even though these films did not emit light as expected. This research is important because it highlights a new material that could lead to improved designs for things like solar cells and sensors.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers in fields like renewable energy and electronics.
Molecular layer deposition of photoactive metal-naphthalene hybrid thin films.
2021
Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)
Rogowska M, Hansen PA, Sønsteby HH, Dziadkowiec J, Valen H +1 more
Plain English This study focused on creating and testing thin films made from a combination of organic and inorganic materials, using a method called molecular layer deposition. Researchers found that these films, made with different metals, emitted bright blue light, with varying properties depending on the metal used; for example, films made with titanium did not glow as much due to it suppressing the light emitted. This research is important because it sets the stage for developing new materials that could be used in various applications, like solar energy and lighting.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and companies developing new materials for technology and energy solutions.
The association between time-of-day of habitual exercise training and changes in relevant cancer health outcomes among cancer survivors.
2021
PloS one
Coletta AM, Playdon MC, Baron KG, Wei M, Kelley K +10 more
Plain English This study looked at how the time of day that cancer survivors exercise—morning, afternoon, or a mix—affects their health after treatment. Researchers found that about 37% of survivors typically exercised in the morning, while 34% did so in the afternoon, and 28% mixed the two; those who worked out in the afternoon had better results in fitness and strength. Additionally, those who did a mix of morning and afternoon workouts tended to gain more weight and waist size compared to others.
Who this helps: This research benefits cancer survivors looking to improve their health through exercise.
Plain English Researchers studied how a molecule called nitric oxide affects a cell's ability to detect and repair DNA damage, focusing on pancreatic beta cells versus other cell types. They found that nitric oxide has two opposite effects: at low levels it activates the DNA damage alarm system, but at higher levels it shuts down beta cells' energy production, which prevents them from mounting a proper DNA damage response—an effect that doesn't happen in other cell types. This matters because beta cells are crucial for controlling blood sugar, and understanding how nitric oxide affects their DNA repair could explain why these cells are vulnerable to damage in diseases like diabetes.
The accuracy of clinician evaluation of interproximal contacts using different methods.
2020
The Journal of prosthetic dentistry
Hansen PA, Atwood A, Shanahan M, Beatty M
Plain English This study looked at how well dentists can evaluate the tightness of the space between teeth when fitting crowns using different methods. The researchers found that using shim stock and occlusal articulating film provided much more accurate results compared to the traditional floss and explorer method—both for poorly fitting and well-fitting crowns. This is important because using the most accurate method can help prevent dental issues like gum inflammation and cavities due to poorly fitted crowns.
Who this helps: This helps dentists and their patients by ensuring better-fitting crowns and reducing the risk of dental complications.
Single-step approach to sensitized luminescence through bulk-embedded organics in crystalline fluorides.
2020
Communications chemistry
Hansen PA, Zikmund T, Yu T, Kvalvik JN, Aarholt T +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how to combine two different types of materials to improve glowing effects for technologies like LEDs and energy capture. Researchers found that using a new method, they could achieve strong light emission from specific materials by enhancing energy transfer from an organic compound called terephthalic acid. They achieved a notable success with a certain material (lanthanide luminescence) that usually tends to weaken in the presence of organic substances, successfully retaining brightness.
Who this helps: This benefits developers of lighting and energy technologies, enhancing their ability to create more efficient products.
SurfaceGenie: a web-based application for prioritizing cell-type-specific marker candidates.
2020
Bioinformatics (Oxford, England)
Waas M, Snarrenberg ST, Littrell J, Jones Lipinski RA, Hansen PA +2 more
Plain English This study focused on creating a web-based tool called SurfaceGenie, which helps identify specific proteins on the surface of different cell types. Researchers found that their new scoring system, GenieScore, effectively ranks potential cell markers using data from human and mouse studies related to cancer and other biological areas. This matters because it streamlines the process of finding relevant markers, making it easier for scientists to use them for applications like targeted drug delivery and disease diagnosis.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working in cancer and cell biology.
Repeated ambulance use is associated with chronic diseases - a population-based historic cohort study of patients' symptoms and diagnoses.
2019
Scandinavian journal of trauma, resuscitation and emergency medicine
Søvsø MB, Kløjgaard TA, Hansen PA, Christensen EF
Plain English This study looked at patients who frequently called for ambulances and found that a significant portion, 16%, were repeat users, making up one-third of all ambulance calls. The study revealed that these frequent users often suffered from serious chronic conditions like breathing difficulties, seizures, chest pain, and alcohol-related issues, with specific increases in relevant diagnoses, such as respiratory diseases and mental disorders. This is important because it highlights the need for better healthcare options for these individuals rather than relying solely on emergency services, which may not address their ongoing health needs.
Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic diseases and their healthcare providers.
Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement Restructures Reward Processing and Promotes Interoceptive Awareness in Overweight Cancer Survivors: Mechanistic Results From a Stage 1 Randomized Controlled Trial.
2019
Integrative cancer therapies
Thomas EA, Mijangos JL, Hansen PA, White S, Walker D +3 more
Plain English This study examined how a new program called Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) can help overweight cancer survivors by combining exercise, nutrition advice, and mindfulness training. Researchers found that participants who added MORE to their routine showed significant improvements in understanding their body signals (called interoceptive awareness), enjoyed food more, and ate less due to external cues. Specifically, 82% of those who started the MORE program completed it, and as a result, there was a noticeable decrease in unhealthy eating habits and waist-to-hip ratio.
Who this helps: This benefits overweight cancer survivors looking to improve their eating habits and overall well-being.
Sensors for optical thermometry based on luminescence from layered YVO: Ln(Ln = Nd, Sm, Eu, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb) thin films made by atomic layer deposition.
2019
Scientific reports
Getz MN, Nilsen O, Hansen PA
Plain English Researchers developed new temperature sensors using special thin films made from a combination of materials that can withstand high temperatures, reaching up to 850 Kelvin (about 577°C). They found that a specific layered design with europium and dysprosium produced the highest sensitivity at 640 Kelvin, showing a sensitivity of 3.6%. This is important because it allows for accurate temperature measurements in extreme conditions, such as below the Earth's surface, where traditional thermometers fail.
Who this helps: This helps scientists and engineers working in high-temperature environments, such as geothermal research and energy production.
The Danish prehospital emergency healthcare system and research possibilities.
2019
Scandinavian journal of trauma, resuscitation and emergency medicine
Lindskou TA, Mikkelsen S, Christensen EF, Hansen PA, Jørgensen G +4 more
Plain English This study looked at Denmark's emergency medical services (EMS) and how they've changed over the years. It found that since 2007, Denmark has organized its EMS into five regions, each with its own ambulance services, and has improved the response system, including a central coordination center for emergencies. This matters because it enhances quick and effective medical responses for emergencies, ensuring all services are publicly funded and easily accessible without charges.
Who this helps: This benefits patients needing emergency medical care.
Management of a Damaged Implant for Retention of an Overdenture Prosthesis and Fixed Single Crown: Clinical Reports.
2018
Journal of prosthodontics : official journal of the American College of Prosthodontists
Hansen PA, Salinas AA
Plain English This study looked at ways to fix damaged dental implants when a screw breaks and can't be removed. In two cases, instead of removing the entire implant, the researchers created custom parts to restore the functionality of the implants. This approach helped keep the implants in place and allowed patients to continue using their dental prosthetics effectively.
Who this helps: Patients with damaged dental implants.
Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor Deficiency Enhances β-Cell Susceptibility to Palmitate.
2018
Molecular and cellular biology
Baldwin AC, Naatz A, Bohnsack RN, Bartosiak JT, Oleson BJ +3 more
Plain English Researchers discovered that insulin-producing cells protect themselves from damage caused by palmitate (a common fatty acid) by using a cellular cleanup system called lysosomes to break down and remove damaged proteins. Cells that lacked a specific protein needed to deliver garbage to lysosomes were much more vulnerable to palmitate damage, while cells with this protein intact survived better. This finding suggests that keeping the lysosomal cleanup system working properly is essential for pancreatic cells to survive when exposed to excess fat.
Cast erosion from the cleaning of debris after the use of a cast trimmer.
2017
The Journal of prosthetic dentistry
Hansen PA, Beatty MW
Plain English The study looked at different ways to clean dental casts made from gypsum after they are trimmed. Researchers tested three cleaning methods: rinsing under tap water, brushing with a soft toothbrush, and soaking in slurry water followed by brushing. They found that all methods effectively removed debris, but there was no significant difference in cleanliness or the quality of surface details using any of the methods.
Who this helps: This benefits dentists and dental technicians who work with gypsum casts.
Plain English This study looked at how to create thin films of a material called YbVO using a method that involves layering and heating. Researchers found that using a specific ratio of the chemical compounds (1 part Yb(thd) to 3 parts VO(thd)) led to the best results, producing films that emitted near-infrared light and were well-structured even at lower heating temperatures of 500 °C. This is important because these films can be used in advanced technologies such as lasers and sensors, making them more efficient and easier to produce.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and companies developing high-tech optical devices.
Trends in diagnostic patterns and mortality in emergency ambulance service patients in 2007-2014: a population-based cohort study from the North Denmark Region.
2017
BMJ open
Christensen EF, Bendtsen MD, Larsen TM, Jensen FB, Lindskou TA +4 more
Plain English This study looked at ambulance users in North Denmark from 2007 to 2014 to understand who calls for emergency services and what happens to them afterwards. They found that ambulance use rose significantly, from 24.3 to 40.2 patients per 1,000 people, with more women and elderly patients using the service. At the same time, while the number of patients with serious health issues also increased, the chances of dying after one day and thirty days fell, showing a decrease in mortality rates from 2.40% to 1.21% and 5.01% to 4.36%, respectively.
Who this helps: This research helps patients and healthcare providers understand trends in emergency medical services and improve care.
The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal : official publication of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association
Hansen PA, Cook NB, Ahmad O
Plain English This study focused on creating a special device called a feeding obturator for infants with large clefts in their lip and palate, which can make it hard for them to eat properly. The researchers found that this device helps infants feed better, which is crucial for them to gain weight before they undergo surgery to fix their cleft. Using standard dental materials, the obturator fits well in the mouth and allows for easy feeding while also enabling breathing.
Who this helps: This helps infants with cleft lip and palate issues and their caregivers.
Diagnosis and mortality in prehospital emergency patients transported to hospital: a population-based and registry-based cohort study.
2016
BMJ open
Christensen EF, Larsen TM, Jensen FB, Bendtsen MD, Hansen PA +2 more
Plain English This study looked at the health and outcomes of nearly 149,000 people who needed emergency ambulance services in Northern Denmark from 2007 to 2014. They found that 1.8% of these patients died within one day and 4.7% died within thirty days after their emergency call, with the highest fatalities occurring in patients with circulatory system diseases (7.7% within one day). Understanding these patterns helps improve emergency medical care and response tailored to the needs of these patients.
Who this helps: Patients requiring emergency medical assistance and healthcare providers.
Return to Work in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Survivors: A Nationwide Register-Based Follow-Up Study.
2015
Circulation
Kragholm K, Wissenberg M, Mortensen RN, Fonager K, Jensen SE +10 more
Plain English This study looked at how many people who survived a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital were able to return to work. Out of over 12,000 working-age patients, 796 survived for 30 days after their arrest, and 76.6% of them returned to work within an average of 4 months. The rate of those returning to work has improved over time, from 66.1% in 2001-2005 to 78.1% in 2006-2011, indicating that more survivors are maintaining their health and abilities post-event.
Who this helps: This research benefits cardiac arrest survivors and their healthcare providers by showcasing improvements in recovery and work reintegration.
Home Care Providers to the Rescue: A Novel First-Responder Programme.
2015
PloS one
Hansen SM, Brøndum S, Thomas G, Rasmussen SR, Kvist B +7 more
Plain English This study examined a new program where home care providers, trained to use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and perform CPR, responded to cardiac arrests in a rural area of Denmark. Out of 60 cardiac arrests, home care providers were sent to 28 cases, arriving before ambulances in 10 instances and delivering CPR in those moments. The program is significant because 95% of these responders felt prepared to assist, showing that trained home care providers can play a critical role in saving lives in rural settings.
Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing cardiac arrest and their families.
Use of cast post-and-cores for the alteration of crown position for the esthetically compromised patient.
2014
Operative dentistry
Hansen P, Veurink J, Ambrososio M
Plain English This study looked at how using cast post-and-cores can change the position of dental crowns to improve the appearance of patients with dental issues. The technique allows for creating two custom dental bridges that enhance how a person's smile looks. This is important because it helps make dental restorations blend better with natural teeth, leading to improved confidence for the patient.
Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for better dental aesthetics.
Predictable casting for dimensional shrinkage of fast-cast post-and-cores.
2014
Operative dentistry
Hansen P
Plain English This study looked at how to create dental post-and-core pieces that shrink consistently during the casting process to avoid damaging the remaining tooth structure. Researchers tested three different casting methods on 45 samples and found that using a specific type of investment material with an accelerated technique resulted in the best consistency, reducing the unwanted variation in size. The results showed significant differences based on the materials used, leading to more reliable outcomes for dental professionals when creating these components.
Who this helps: This helps dentists and their patients by ensuring more reliable dental repairs.
Impact of health care system delay in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction on return to labor market and work retirement.
2014
The American journal of cardiology
Laut KG, Hjort J, Engstrøm T, Jensen LO, Tilsted Hansen HH +16 more
Plain English This study looked at how delays in emergency medical care for heart attacks (specifically ST-elevation myocardial infarction or STEMI) affect patients' ability to return to work. Researchers found that 93% of patients returned to work within four years, but those who experienced delays of more than 120 minutes were less likely to return, and those delays also led to earlier retirement. This is important because it shows that timely medical response not only saves lives but also helps patients maintain their jobs longer.
Who this helps: Patients recovering from heart attacks and their employers.
Structural and optical properties of lanthanide oxides grown by atomic layer deposition (Ln = Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb).
2013
Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)
Hansen PA, Fjellvåg H, Finstad T, Nilsen O
Plain English This study explored how certain lanthanide oxide films were created and their properties using a method called atomic layer deposition. Researchers found that these films could be smooth and crystalline depending on the temperature, with specific temperature ranges required for each type of lanthanide oxide, such as starting at 250°C for Yb2O3. The findings could help improve the design and performance of optical materials in various technologies.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers working on advanced optical devices and materials.
Association of national initiatives to improve cardiac arrest management with rates of bystander intervention and patient survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
2013
JAMA
Wissenberg M, Lippert FK, Folke F, Weeke P, Hansen CM +11 more
Plain English This study looked at how efforts to improve response to cardiac arrest outside of hospitals in Denmark affected bystander CPR rates and patient survival from 2001 to 2010. During this time, the percentage of bystanders performing CPR increased from 21.1% to 44.9%, and survival rates after 30 days rose from 3.5% to 10.8%. This shows that improving awareness and training for bystanders can significantly enhance survival chances for people experiencing cardiac arrest.
Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing cardiac arrest and their families by increasing the chances of survival through immediate bystander action.
The role of reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory cytokines in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis.
2013
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
Padgett LE, Broniowska KA, Hansen PA, Corbett JA, Tse HM
Plain English This study looked at the role of certain immune cells and substances in the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Researchers found that specific T cells release harmful chemicals called proinflammatory cytokines that contribute to the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This damage is worsened by reactive oxygen species, which are highly reactive molecules that amplify the immune response and lead to further cell death. Understanding these processes is important because it can help develop better treatments for T1D.
Who this helps: This helps patients with type 1 diabetes by offering insights for new treatment approaches.
Cytokine-mediated β-cell damage in PARP-1-deficient islets.
2012
American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism
Andreone T, Meares GP, Hughes KJ, Hansen PA, Corbett JA
Plain English This study looked at the role of a protein called PARP-1 in protecting pancreatic islet cells, which produce insulin, from damage caused by inflammatory signals (cytokines). Researchers found that when PARP-1 is missing, the islet cells are less likely to die when exposed to these harmful signals, indicating a protective effect, but this absence does not help the cells keep producing insulin or prevent damage to their DNA. This matters because understanding how to better protect insulin-producing cells could lead to new treatments for diabetes.
Who this helps: This helps diabetes patients and researchers looking for new therapies.
FoxO1 and SIRT1 regulate beta-cell responses to nitric oxide.
2011
The Journal of biological chemistry
Hughes KJ, Meares GP, Hansen PA, Corbett JA
Plain English This study looked at how two proteins, FoxO1 and SIRT1, influence how pancreatic beta-cells respond to nitric oxide, which can both kill cells and help them repair. Researchers found that when nitric oxide is present, FoxO1 moves into the cell nucleus to promote the expression of a gene called GADD45α that aids in DNA repair. However, when SIRT1 is blocked, the protective effects of FoxO1 are reduced, leading to increased cell death instead of repair.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with conditions like diabetes, where pancreatic beta-cell function is crucial.
Measuring the relative concentration of H2 and D2 in HD gas with gas chromatography.
2011
The Review of scientific instruments
Whisnant CS, Hansen PA, Kelley TD
Plain English This study focused on measuring the amounts of regular hydrogen (H2) and deuterium (D2) in hydrogen deuteride (HD) gas, which is used in nuclear experiments. Researchers found that the concentrations of H2 and D2 were a few percent, with a measurement accuracy of about ±5%. This is important because knowing the exact makeup of the HD gas helps ensure the targets used in experiments are of high quality and reliable.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists conducting experiments with photonuclear interactions.
Atomic layer deposition of organic-inorganic hybrid materials based on saturated linear carboxylic acids.
2011
Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)
Klepper KB, Nilsen O, Hansen PA, Fjellvåg H
Plain English Researchers studied a method called atomic layer deposition (ALD) to create thin films from a combination of organic and inorganic materials, using different carboxylic acids. They found that the films could grow quickly, with rates up to 4.3 nanometers per cycle, and showed unique properties like smoothness and stability in water, except for films made from the smallest acids. This research is important because it opens up new possibilities for creating materials that can be used in various applications, such as improving how surfaces interact with water or light.
Who this helps: This helps material scientists and engineers looking to develop advanced coatings and films.
IRE1-dependent activation of AMPK in response to nitric oxide.
2011
Molecular and cellular biology
Meares GP, Hughes KJ, Naatz A, Papa FR, Urano F +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how cells react to nitric oxide, a chemical that can be harmful in high amounts. Researchers found that nitric oxide activates a protein called AMPK, which helps protect cells, especially in the pancreas, from damage. They discovered that this activation happens through a specific protein called IRE1, not through other known pathways. Understanding this process is important because it reveals how cells can defend themselves from stress and might lead to better treatments for conditions involving cellular damage.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with pancreatic diseases and conditions related to oxidative stress.
Plain English This study looked at patients with thoraco-abdominal aneurysms who were not fit for standard surgery from 2002 to 2008. Out of 216 patients, 89 (41%) were deemed unfit for intervention, with a median age of 75 and a median aneurysm size of 6 cm. During the study, 49 patients (55%) died, with 23 of these deaths caused by ruptured aneurysms. This matters because it highlights the high risk of death in these patients and suggests that new, less invasive treatments could help some of them, but only if they have a good chance of benefiting from the procedure.
Who this helps: This helps patients with complex aneurysms who can’t undergo traditional surgery.
A provisional fixed partial denture for an implant prosthesis.
2010
General dentistry
Hansen PA, Kim E
Plain English This study focused on a new method for creating a temporary dental restoration for patients with multiple dental implants. The technique allows dentists to build a temporary denture quickly, adjusting its shape and fit while the patient is still in the chair, ensuring that patients can test comfort and speech before the final restoration is made. This is important because it helps ensure that the final denture meets the patient's needs for both appearance and functionality.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with dental implants by giving them a chance to test and refine their temporary dentures.
A quick esthetic remount cast for all-ceramic restorations.
2010
Journal of prosthodontics : official journal of the American College of Prosthodontists
Hansen PA, Gist J
Plain English Researchers developed a fast way to create a remount cast used for adjusting all-ceramic dental crowns and bridges. This method helps technicians accurately see where the gum tissues are, making it easier to modify these dental restorations. This matters because timely and precise adjustments can improve dental care and patient satisfaction.
Who this helps: Dental technicians and patients receiving ceramic dental work.
Plain English This study looked at the relationship between running and osteoarthritis, a condition that affects joint cartilage. Researchers reviewed various studies and found that running does not lead to osteoarthritis; in fact, most reports show no link between the two. This is important because it suggests that running may not harm the joints as previously thought, encouraging more people to engage in this healthy activity.
Who this helps: This benefits runners, fitness enthusiasts, and those considering running as a form of exercise.
The quality of post and cores made using a reduce-time casting technique.
2009
Operative dentistry
Hansen PA, LeBlanc M, Cook NB, Williams K
Plain English This study looked at how well dental castings made with a quick technique worked in terms of their completeness, smoothness, and size accuracy. Researchers created 225 castings and found that while all types performed similarly in terms of completeness and size, the castings made using the Ceramigold material were significantly rougher than others. Importantly, the faster casting method, Fast Fire 15, produced castings that are good enough for use in dental care.
Who this helps: This benefits dentists and their patients needing dental restorations.