Regan Healy

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This study looked at the sprinting patterns of female Gaelic football players during training and competitions, comparing performances in league and championship games. Researchers tracked 14 players and found that during training, sprint distance and the number of high-speed sprints decreased from league to championship, while peak speeds increased. In matches, players sprinted longer distances and reached higher speeds in league games compared to championship games. Understanding these differences is important for improving training methods and match preparations for female players. Who this helps: This research benefits coaches and trainers working with female Gaelic football players.

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This study investigates how switching from strict compliance regulations to a risk-based approach can improve nursing and midwifery practices in Ireland, especially for healthcare assistants who care for patients but often lack regulation. The research highlights that risk-based regulation can make oversight more efficient and focused on preventing harm, allowing for better patient care, while acknowledging that there are challenges like limited data and differing risk views. Implementing this approach can enhance patient safety without overloading healthcare workers with unnecessary rules. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare assistants by ensuring safer care practices.

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In 2025, there was a serious measles outbreak in New Mexico that started from a nearby Texas community, resulting in 99 reported cases, with about half of those being adults. In response, the New Mexico Department of Health launched an outreach program that included a new website, a help hotline, and mobile clinics, leading to a 55% increase in measles vaccine doses given compared to the previous year. This is important because it shows that effective communication and improved vaccine access can help contain outbreaks of highly contagious diseases like measles. Who this helps: This helps patients and communities by increasing vaccination rates and reducing outbreaks.

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This study compared two laser treatments for lowering eye pressure in people with glaucoma: Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). Both methods were found to be similarly effective, with survival rates for maintaining low eye pressure at 81% for DSLT and 78% for SLT after three months, and 37% for DSLT and 43% for SLT after a year. The quicker and less invasive nature of DSLT could make it a better option for more patients needing treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with glaucoma or high eye pressure, providing them with a potentially simpler treatment option.

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Researchers discovered two new types of truffles in southern South America that grow in association with beech trees. One of these truffle species is only found in a threatened coastal forest in Chile and has only been documented three times: twice in the last few years and once over a century ago. This discovery is important because it highlights the need to protect fragile ecosystems that support unique fungi. Who this helps: This helps conservationists and environmental scientists working to protect biodiversity in threatened forests.

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This study looked at how patients who use their arms to move around (like with walkers or wheelchairs) do after shoulder surgery, specifically shoulder replacement operations. Researchers found that while these patients generally experienced good pain relief and improvement in shoulder function, they had a higher complication rate of 17% compared to 9.1% for patients who walk on their own. This is important because it shows that while shoulder surgery can be beneficial for these patients, their risk of complications is greater, which providers should consider when planning treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on assistive devices and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well different surgical treatments work for patients who have lost a lot of bone in their shoulder, a condition called massive proximal humeral bone loss. Researchers reviewed 11 studies involving 277 patients, finding that while patients experienced significant improvement following surgery, the overall complication rate was 30.1%, with revision surgery being the most common issue at 21%. Notably, complications were higher for certain procedures, with a 51% complication rate for one common type of surgery. Who this helps: Patients facing shoulder surgery due to extensive bone loss.

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This study looked at how nurses in busy hospital wards understand and manage different definitions of their work. Researchers observed nurses on the job, interviewed them, and analyzed patient records to see how they navigate various expectations in their daily tasks. They found that nurses often shift between different approaches and use unique language, which helps them deliver care even when faced with conflicting demands. This flexibility is crucial because it highlights that nursing practices aren't based on just one theory, and recognizing this can improve how we plan and support nursing work. Who this helps: This benefits nurses and healthcare administrators who need to understand the complexities of nursing care.

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This study looked at two types of sprint training for young rugby players: one with no added weight (unresisted) and one using weights equal to half their body mass (heavily resisted). Over four weeks, both training methods helped improve sprint times and strength measures, but only the unresisted training led to a significant improvement in sprint speed over 30 meters. This research matters because it shows that both training methods can be effective ways to help young athletes maintain or improve their performance, especially during busy competition seasons. Who this helps: This helps young rugby players and their coaches.

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This research examined air pollution in Hamilton and Sarnia, Ontario, focusing on harmful airborne chemicals that aren’t usually monitored. The study found a total of 19 types of halogenated pollutants, including new substances not previously identified, and showed that air quality varies significantly between the two cities due to their different industrial activities. This matters because better tracking of these pollutants can help protect public health and improve air quality. Who this helps: This helps patients, local residents, and environmental health advocates.

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This study looked at how female team sports players run short distances and what methods are best for measuring their maximum sprinting speed. It found that using 5-meter split times over a 40-meter sprint gave the fastest speed results and that all testing methods were reliable, meaning they produce consistent results. The difference in maximum sprint speeds was significant, ranging from 0.02 to 0.08 meters per second depending on the method used, and the researchers suggest the 5-meter splits over 30 meters for future assessments, as they are effective and easy to apply. Who this helps: This helps coaches and trainers working with female team sport athletes.

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This study looked at how tranexamic acid (TXA) affects healing in knee injuries in rabbits. Researchers found that, while TXA did not improve the healing of meniscus injuries, it actually harmed the structure of the cartilage in the knee. Specifically, after 8 weeks, the cartilage in TXA-treated knees had less protective substance than in untreated knees, indicating potential negative effects. Who this helps: This research is important for doctors and patients considering TXA for knee surgeries.

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This study looked at brain blood flow regulation in patients who had a type of brain bleeding known as aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Researchers found that during the first few days after the bleeding, patients who experienced low blood pressure levels (specifically, below a threshold they identified using brain oximetry) were more likely to develop delayed brain damage and had worse recovery outcomes; 42.9% of patients developed this brain damage and 57.1% had poor outcomes a year later. Understanding these blood pressure levels can help doctors manage patients better, potentially improving recovery. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and their doctors.

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This study looked at air pollution in two industrial cities in Ontario by measuring harmful chemicals and metals over a year, using passive air samplers at different locations (like rural and urban areas). It found that levels of dangerous chemicals like PCBs and flame retardants were significantly higher near industrial sites, with annual average concentrations for some chemicals reaching as high as 631 picograms per cubic meter. This is important because these pollutants can harm human health, especially since certain chemicals exceeded safety limits in the air. Who this helps: This research benefits local residents and environmental health advocates by highlighting air quality issues related to industrial emissions.

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This study looked at how different types of exercise affect a protein called lipocalin-2 (LCN2) in middle-aged and older adults, which is important because high levels of LCN2 are linked to health issues like diabetes and difficulty in physical activities. Researchers found that after a single intense workout, LCN2 levels temporarily increased but returned to normal within hours. However, a month of high-intensity exercise did not lower LCN2 levels, even though it improved other measures of fitness. Who this helps: This research benefits older adults looking to improve their health and fitness.

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This study looked at a group of fungi called Pezizales in Israel, focusing on their types and how they get their nutrients. Researchers collected 112 samples and identified 23 different genera, discovering 25 species that were new to Israel. They found that most of these fungi form relationships with tree roots (ectomycorrhizal), while some behave as saprotrophs, which feed on dead organic matter, though some samples had unclear nutritional behaviors needing further research. Who this helps: This research helps scientists and environmentalists better understand fungal diversity and ecology in Israel.

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This study focused on understanding the evolution and classification of truffles, a type of fungus that forms underground. Researchers analyzed 41 new fungal genomes and discovered that truffles evolved from above-ground to underground forms only once. They also identified new species and confirmed that some truffles obtain nutrients by partnering with trees, which is important for understanding their role in ecosystems and the potential for cultivation. Who this helps: This benefits chefs, foragers, and researchers interested in gourmet fungi and their ecological roles.

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Researchers spent nine years cataloging mushrooms and other large fungi at a Florida nature preserve, identifying over 546 species and estimating the actual total is probably between 900 and 1,200 species—meaning there are more fungal species at this one site than there are vertebrate animals or plants. They used DNA testing to precisely identify each specimen and created a reference collection for future research. This matters because fungi are essential to forest ecosystems (they help trees absorb nutrients and break down dead material), yet scientists know far less about fungal diversity than they do about plants and animals, making this comprehensive catalog a crucial foundation for understanding and protecting Florida's ecosystems.

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This study examined how well four medical schools in Massachusetts teach doctors-in-training the skills they need for serious illness communication (SIC) with patients. It found that, on average, students only receive 40 hours of required SIC training over four years, and most of this training happens as electives rather than core classes. This gap in training is concerning because effective communication is crucial for providing compassionate care when patients face serious health decisions. Who this helps: This research benefits medical students and future patients who need better communication during serious illness.

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This study looked at five cases of cleaned-up sediments in Puget Sound to understand how effective these cleanup efforts were at reducing contamination risks over time. The findings showed that while cleaning up polluted sediments can lower contaminant levels, the impact is less significant in areas with lower contamination. Specifically, when major pollution sources were controlled, sediment quality improved quickly, with an average recovery time of just 1.6 years. These insights suggest that well-monitored source control efforts are more effective in protecting water quality than sediment cleanup alone. Who this helps: This helps environmental regulators and community groups working to improve water quality and protect aquatic life.

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This study examined the strength of elite and subelite female Gaelic football players by comparing their physical abilities. Researchers tested 92 players—30 elite and 62 subelite—and found that elite players were significantly stronger in several areas: they had greater peak force, jump height, and explosive power. These differences matter because they help coaches and trainers understand what physical attributes separate top players from others, which can aid in talent development. Who this helps: Coaches and trainers of female Gaelic football players.

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This study looked at how different ways to deliver tranexamic acid (TXA), a medication used to treat severe bleeding, work in pigs that had experienced major injuries and blood loss. The researchers found that both the intravenous infusion and rapid push methods quickly reached effective levels of TXA in the blood (less than one minute with the push method), while the intramuscular injection took longer to achieve the same effect, particularly in injured animals. This is important because finding faster and easier ways to give TXA can save lives in emergency situations, especially when standard IV methods aren't practical. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing severe bleeding, especially in emergencies like trauma or battlefield injuries.

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This study looked at how speed and acceleration in rugby players vary by age and position on the field. It involved 300 male players ranging from under 14 to senior levels, finding that younger players (under 14 and under 16) had lower acceleration abilities compared to older players (under 18 and seniors). This information is important because it can help coaches develop better training plans tailored to different age groups and positions, ultimately improving player performance. Who this helps: Coaches and trainers working with rugby players of all ages.

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This study looked at treatments for people who frequently get urinary tract infections (UTIs). Researchers found that certain bladder treatments, especially those that help protect the bladder lining and a specific group of antibiotics, are effective and safe in preventing these recurring infections. This is important because it offers alternatives to antibiotics, helping combat antibiotic resistance. Who this helps: Patients with recurrent urinary tract infections.

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This research looked at how aerobic exercise affects testosterone levels in people who are obese or have type 2 diabetes (T2D). They found that aerobic exercise moderately increased testosterone in men by about 16%, but it did not significantly change levels in women. This is important because higher testosterone levels can improve health for men facing these conditions. Who this helps: This helps men with obesity or type 2 diabetes.

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This study examined the types of fungi that live in partnership with two plants, Crocanthemum and Lechea, in sandy, fire-prone areas of Florida. Researchers found that these plants mostly hosted fungi from two groups: Cenococcum and Russula, with some fungi from the Delastria group also present. Although some fungi were shared with nearby pines, the fungal communities associated with Crocanthemum and Lechea were still notably different from those found with the pines. Who this helps: This research is beneficial to ecologists and conservationists studying plant-fungi relationships in unique ecosystems.

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Researchers identified two new edible truffle species growing wild in eastern North America by using trained dogs to sniff them out, then confirmed the discoveries through genetic testing and chemical analysis of their aromas. These truffles have culinary value and distinctive smells caused by compounds like dimethyl sulfide, making them potentially valuable for harvesting and selling. The findings show that truffle-hunting dogs are an effective tool for discovering unknown fungi in North America, where many undescribed edible species likely still exist.

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This study focused on improving a computer model called MT3D-USGS to better understand how heat moves through the ground, especially in areas that aren’t fully saturated with water. The researchers found that these upgrades allow the model to simulate heat transport under various conditions more accurately, aligning closely with results from another program. This matters because it helps predict how changes in temperature could affect important ecosystems near water bodies, which can influence wildlife and plant habitats. Who this helps: This helps patients and communities that rely on healthy water ecosystems for recreation, drinking water, and biodiversity.

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This study looked at the sources of fine particulate matter (PM) air pollution in Hamilton, Ontario, over an 18-month period. Researchers found that local sources like traffic and industrial emissions contributed up to 17% of the average PM levels, while combined local and regional sources accounted for 43%. Understanding these sources is crucial because high levels of certain pollutants, especially from traffic in winter and wildfires in summer, can worsen air quality and harm public health. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and communities affected by air pollution.

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This study looked at how different types of strength training can improve sprinting speed in female athletes who play team sports. It analyzed data from 15 studies involving 362 participants and found that strength training led to small to moderate improvements in sprinting performance, with the best results coming from reactive and combined strength training. Notably, younger athletes (under 18) showed greater improvements compared to adults, and longer training programs (more than 8 weeks and over 12 sessions) were more effective in boosting sprint speed. Who this helps: This benefits female athletes, coaches, and trainers focused on improving sprint performance in team sports.

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This study looked at a rare type of bladder cancer that is not linked to a specific infection and its connection to two unusual symptoms: high calcium levels and an increased white blood cell count. Researchers reported a case of a 66-year-old man who had blood in his urine and high calcium, and after treating his bladder cancer, both symptoms improved. Monitoring these symptoms is important for doctors, as it can help catch and treat cancer recurrence sooner, improving patient survival chances. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with bladder cancer.

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This study looked at how patients in an Australian hospital face challenges accessing bariatric surgery services and their preferences for using technology to get health information. Out of 117 participants, one in three reported barriers like travel time and parking, while a strong majority (82%) preferred to receive health information via email and were open to engaging with health professionals through text messages and calls. This is important because it highlights the need for better online health solutions that can make it easier for patients to access the support and information they need for their weight loss journey. Who this helps: Patients seeking bariatric surgery.

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This study looked at how to improve access to specialist palliative care for patients who suffer severe strokes by using a reminder system for doctors. Researchers created an electronic alert that prompted doctors to consider palliative care for patients with serious strokes, specifically those with a score of 20 or higher on a stroke severity scale. After implementing this system, the number of palliative care consultations increased from 11.7 per 100 patients in 2019 to 20.7 in 2020, showing that reminders helped doctors recognize patients' palliative care needs better. Who this helps: This benefits patients who experience catastrophic strokes by ensuring they receive necessary care and support.

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In this study, researchers looked at how aerobic fitness (measured by VO2peak) and recovery time after exercise (VO2 recovery kinetics) relate to muscle strength and physical performance in healthy older adults. They found that a higher VO2peak is linked to better leg and grip strength, specifically, with a strong correlation of 59% for leg strength, but there was no link between VO2 recovery kinetics and muscle strength. This matters because it suggests that improving aerobic capacity is important for maintaining muscle strength in older adults, helping identify those who may benefit from strength training. Who this helps: This helps older adults and their healthcare providers focus on enhancing muscle strength through aerobic exercise.

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This study looked at how a mobile health (mHealth) program could support patients after bariatric surgery by sending them information and reminders through texts and emails. Researchers involved 176 patients and found that while many liked the text messages, only a small number felt they helped with setting goals or making dietary changes. The program cost about AUD 11 per person, and patients who started the program three months after surgery showed a significant weight difference after a year compared to those who followed standard care. Who this helps: Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery can benefit from improved support and guidance.

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This research paper discusses a newly identified species of truffle fungi from northeastern North America that lives in partnership with certain trees. Scientists found this fungus via genetic testing and studying its unique characteristics, noting that it can be found in the Midwest USA and Quebec, Canada. They also developed a new way to prepare the fungus's spores for viewing under a microscope, which helps reveal important details about its structure. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying fungal biology and ecology.

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This research focused on a type of truffle known as Amylascus, which is found in Australia and South America. The scientists discovered that there are more species of Amylascus than previously recognized, identifying two known species and seven new ones, including five from South America. This finding is significant because it enhances our understanding of biodiversity in these regions and shows that some truffles may be more common than we thought, despite them being rarely observed in nature. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying biodiversity and the ecosystems in which these truffles exist.

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Researchers created a telehealth program led by pharmacists to help veterans taking cancer medications prescribed by outside doctors. In its first year, 64 veterans participated, and the pharmacist conducted 342 consultations and made 101 recommendations, which saved about $200,724 on medication costs. This program not only improved veterans' healthcare and satisfaction but also showed that remote pharmacy services can effectively support patients' needs. Who this helps: This helps veterans receiving cancer treatment via community providers.

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This study looked at how different sprinting factors affect the performance of elite male sprinters in the 100-meter race. Researchers found that faster sprinters had a higher maximum speed and quicker acceleration times, with significant differences between the fastest and slowest groups—those who sprinted faster had a maximum velocity difference that correlated strongly with their overall race times. This information is important because it helps coaches understand what specific physical abilities to focus on when training sprinters to improve their speeds. Who this helps: Coaches and athletes looking to enhance sprinting performance.

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This study examined various types of fungi to determine how they should be classified and to clarify the relationships between different species. Researchers analyzed genetic information and characteristics of these fungi and found that one group, previously thought to be part of another, is actually a separate and distinct group. This distinction helps scientists understand the diversity of fungi better and provides valuable insights into their distribution around the world. Who this helps: This research benefits mycologists (fungus experts) and anyone studying biodiversity.

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This study looked at how the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign managed to reduce the spread of COVID-19 during the Fall 2020 semester. They conducted over 1 million saliva tests for the virus, kept positivity rates low, and had no COVID-19-related hospitalizations or deaths among their students and staff. This approach not only protected the university community but also lowered local mortality rates by more than four times compared to expected figures. Who this helps: This benefits students, faculty, and the surrounding community by ensuring a safer environment.

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The study looked at whether nicotinamide riboside (NR) and caffeine can help increase a molecule called NAD, which tends to decrease as people age, especially in those with Alzheimer's disease. While they found that NR and caffeine did increase NAD levels in cells taken from both Alzheimer’s patients and healthy controls, this boost did not meaningfully improve how those cells produced energy. This is important because it shows that simply increasing NAD levels isn't enough to fix energy problems in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, suggesting that other treatments may be needed alongside NR and caffeine. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, as well as researchers developing new treatments.

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This study looked at how certain traits related to autism can affect how people understand and think about objects they can manipulate, like a faucet or a jar. Researchers tested 85 typical adults and found that those who scored higher on a questionnaire about autism traits were less likely to connect similar objects based on how they are manipulated. This matters because it highlights how subtle differences in motor skills and experiences can influence our mental representations of everyday objects, which may be especially important for understanding individuals with autism. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare professionals understand the cognitive differences in patients with autism and could inform educational strategies or therapies.

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This study looked at how winter weather affects air pollution from traffic near a busy highway. Researchers measured several pollutants at two distances—10 meters and 150 meters from the road—and found that pollution levels were significantly higher closer to the highway, with nitrogen oxide levels 13 times greater at 10 meters than in the opposite direction. The findings highlight that people living near major roads are at a greater risk of exposure to harmful air pollutants, especially when the weather is cold and air is stagnant. Who this helps: This information benefits residents living near highways and urban planners focused on public health.

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This study looked at three types of wearable activity monitors to see how well they could track early activity and predict outcomes for patients recovering from heart surgery. Researchers found that the StepWatch monitor was the most effective in identifying patients at risk for longer hospital stays or needing additional care after discharge. Specifically, a daily step count of 250 to 500 steps could identify 74% to 96% of patients facing these risks, which is crucial for improving recovery plans. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from heart surgery and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the experiences of 40 people using methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) in Ireland to understand their views on their right to health. The findings showed that most participants felt they had less control over their treatment due to disrespectful and coercive attitudes from healthcare workers, which made them feel the system was failing them. This research highlights a major gap between the rights and treatment people should receive and what they actually experience, indicating a need for better funding, staff training, and system oversight to improve MMT services. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing methadone treatment and healthcare providers aiming to improve care standards.

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This research identified two new species of cup fungi found in the forests of Chile, which grow in soil associated with certain trees. The researchers conducted careful analyses of the fungi's structure and genetic material, confirming that these new species are linked to other fungi known to help trees by enhancing nutrient uptake. This finding adds valuable knowledge about biodiversity in Southern Hemisphere forests and highlights the ecological roles these fungi play. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying forest ecosystems and their interactions.

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This study focused on identifying new types of truffles that grow on pine trees in eastern North America. Researchers discovered two new species: one has a light-colored outer layer and unique surface features, while the other is a whitish truffle that can be distinguished from its relatives by various size and color differences. This finding is important because it adds to our understanding of truffle diversity and could impact how we manage and preserve these fungi in their ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps scientists and conservationists studying forest ecosystems and biodiversity.