DR. DAVID S. FOLEY, M.D.

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This study looked at the use of preventive ureteral stents during kidney transplant surgeries in over 3,400 patients. It found that while the stents did not lower the rates of serious ureteral issues (2.4% for non-stented vs. 2.5% for stented patients), those with stents had a significantly higher risk of urinary tract infections, with rates rising from 3.2% to 7.4%. The results suggest that not using stents in some patients could reduce UTI risks without increasing other complications. Who this helps: This information benefits kidney transplant patients and their doctors when making decisions about stenting.

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This study compared two methods for kidney removal in living donors: a laparoscopic approach that uses small incisions and a hand-assisted technique that allows for a larger opening. Out of 1,542 donors, 890 had the laparoscopic surgery, which took longer (an average of 180 minutes compared to 150 minutes for hand-assisted), but both methods resulted in similar hospital stays of around 2 days and low readmission rates of about 2.4% for laparoscopic and 2.9% for hand-assisted. The findings are important because they show that both techniques are equally safe and effective, meaning the choice of method can depend more on hospital preferences than on differences in outcomes. Who this helps: This information benefits patients considering being living kidney donors and their doctors in making informed choices about surgical techniques.

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This study looked at why patients are often readmitted to the hospital within 30 days after having a liver transplant. Out of 1,164 patients, 497 (43%) were readmitted, mostly due to infections rather than surgical complications. The strongest predictors of readmission were infections like surgical site infections, sepsis, and urinary tract infections, while having a good functional status helped reduce the risk of being readmitted. Who this helps: This helps patients who have had liver transplants, as well as their doctors, by identifying ways to prevent early readmissions.

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This study looked at why American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people, who are not Hispanic, have higher death rates compared to non-Hispanic White people in the U.S. in 2020. Researchers found that the overall death rate for AI/AN people was nearly double that of Whites (1.90 times higher), and among those aged 25-44, the death rate was almost four times higher. Major causes of death for AI/AN individuals included COVID-19, heart disease, and accidents, highlighting significant health disparities that need to be addressed. Who this helps: This information benefits public health officials and healthcare providers working with AI/AN communities.

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This study looked at how effective robotic surgery is at closing off a part of the heart called the left atrial appendage in patients at high risk for blood clots. Out of 28 patients treated, all but one showed successful closure, and there were no strokes or serious complications right after surgery. After about 1.4 years, most patients were able to stop taking blood thinners, which is significant for reducing their risk of stroke. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart issues, particularly those at risk for strokes.

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Researchers compared outcomes of dual kidney transplantation (using two kidneys from a single marginal donor) versus standard single kidney transplants across nearly 3,200 recipients over two decades. Dual kidney transplant recipients had significantly lower rates of rejection and graft failure within five years, without any increase in surgical complications or hospital stay. Using both kidneys together is a safe and effective way to utilize organs that might otherwise be discarded, expanding the donor pool.

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This study focused on improving how healthcare providers talk to patients and their families about end-of-life care in the intensive care unit (ICU). The researchers created a step-by-step protocol called SAFE-GOALS that includes steps for setting up the conversation, acknowledging feelings, and discussing patient preferences, among other things. Implementing this protocol can help both families and healthcare workers communicate more effectively during difficult times, which is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the care they truly want. Who this helps: This benefits patients and their families facing critical health decisions.

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This study explored a new method for analyzing important features of messenger RNA (mRNA), specifically its capping and tail length, in a single step. Researchers found that using designed DNA molecules, called DNAzymes, allowed them to efficiently identify both the mRNA cap and the poly(A) tail in one reaction, making the process faster and easier than previous methods. This is significant because it simplifies quality control testing for mRNA, which is crucial for developing RNA-based therapies and vaccines. Who this helps: This helps researchers and companies working on RNA therapies and vaccines.

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This study focused on improving the diagnosis and treatment of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). After using a new scoring tool and treatment plan, results showed that infants had significantly fewer days without feeding (2 days compared to 7), shorter antibiotic treatment (3 days instead of 7), less time on total parenteral nutrition (0 days versus 20), and returned to full feeding faster (8 days compared to 18), all without increasing the need for surgery. This is important because it means that infants with CHD can recover more quickly from NEC, which can greatly improve their health outcomes. Who this helps: This helps infants with congenital heart disease and their families.

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This study looked at three types of thermoplastic masks used to keep the head still during a specific cancer treatment called Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS). Researchers found that the open-face mask was the best at minimizing head movement, with very small average rotations of 0.14 degrees in pitch, 0.11 degrees in yaw, and 0.16 degrees in roll. In contrast, the basic mask allowed for much more movement, making it less reliable for this treatment. Who this helps: This study benefits patients undergoing SRS, as it identifies better options for head immobilization during their treatment.

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This research focused on understanding how neurons within a small brain region called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) regulate our body's internal clock, which operates on a roughly 24-hour cycle. The study discovered that while individual neurons can show regular oscillations, they do not all synchronize perfectly in the intact SCN. By developing a model to estimate the timing of these oscillations, the researchers found that cutting the SCN in certain ways disrupts these rhythms differently, showing that the structure of connections among neurons is crucial for maintaining a stable internal clock. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and doctors studying sleep disorders and circadian rhythms.

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This study looked at viral infections among newborns in intensive care units in Western Australia from 2016 to 2021, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of nearly 15,000 infants, 140 tested positive for viruses, mostly for respiratory viruses, with rhinovirus being the most common. It found that respiratory viral infections were more frequent and mostly from the community, especially affecting preterm infants; and during the pandemic, these infections decreased, though non-respiratory viral infections remained the same. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers in neonatal care by highlighting the prevalence and impact of viral infections in newborns, especially preterm infants.

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This study looked at how previous heart surgeries and heart function measured by the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) affect the health and survival of kidney transplant patients. Among 2,377 kidney transplant recipients analyzed, 13.3% had previous heart surgery, which was linked to a higher risk of complications like surgical infections (3.8% vs. 1.1%), delayed graft function (39.2% vs. 28.3%), and longer hospital stays (6.57 days vs. 5.54 days). This information matters because it highlights the need to consider heart health when evaluating the risks for kidney transplant patients, ensuring better care and outcomes. Who this helps: This helps kidney transplant patients and their doctors better understand and manage health risks.

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This study looked at how experiencing maltreatment during childhood affects mental skills in young adults. Researchers found that young adults who faced abuse as children had worse cognitive flexibility (a score of -0.30) and inhibitory control (a score of -0.10) compared to those who were not abused, while their working memory was similar to non-abused peers. This matters because it highlights how childhood trauma can impair important thinking skills, which can affect everyday functioning as adults. Who this helps: This helps patients who experienced childhood maltreatment by informing therapists and counselors about the specific challenges they may face in adult life.

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This study looked at urinary tract infections (UTIs) in kidney transplant patients from 25 different centers. Researchers found that 312 out of 5,128 patients, or 6.1%, developed a UTI within 30 days after their transplant, with rates varying significantly from 0% to 12.9% between centers. Certain factors, like using a ureteral stent and being female, increased the risk of UTIs, but there are still differences between centers that have not been fully explained, indicating that improving practices at less successful centers could lead to fewer post-transplant complications. Who this helps: This helps kidney transplant patients by potentially reducing their risk of UTIs.

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This study looked at how hospitals manage kidney injuries in children caused by blunt trauma, finding significant differences in treatment approaches among the 11 hospitals involved. Among 276 children treated, management varied widely, with significant differences noted in outcomes for patients with more severe injuries, such as those admitted to the ICU (55.6% had worse outcomes compared to 18.2% for those who didn't). The findings highlight the need for standardized treatment guidelines to improve care and outcomes for these young patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with kidney injuries and their families, as well as doctors looking for clearer treatment guidelines.

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This study focused on developing a new method to track how magnesium ions are used during the production of messenger RNA (mRNA), which is important for making vaccines. The researchers created a technique called capillary zone electrophoresis that accurately measures magnesium levels and found that the amount of free magnesium is linked to both the yield of mRNA produced and the quality of the RNA. This information is crucial because it helps optimize mRNA production processes, which can improve vaccine efficacy. Who this helps: This helps vaccine manufacturers and researchers developing RNA-based therapies.

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This research paper discusses new standards for a technique called normothermic regional perfusion (NRP), which is important for improving organ donations, especially after someone's heart has stopped. The American Society of Transplant Surgeons developed specific recommendations that include guidelines for communication before procedures, how to perform NRP, and requirements for training those involved in the process. These standards aim to make organ procurement more effective and safer, which can lead to better outcomes for people receiving transplants. Who this helps: These recommendations benefit patients awaiting organ transplants and the healthcare teams involved in their care.

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This study looked at how imaging tests and blood flow measurements could help diagnose a condition called left renal vein compression syndrome (LRVCS) in patients. Out of 55 patients analyzed, 31 were confirmed to have LRVCS through specialized imaging, and those patients who had surgery afterward reported relief of symptoms 81.2% of the time. The findings are important because they establish clear criteria for diagnosis and how effective surgery can be at improving patients' conditions. Who this helps: This research benefits patients suffering from LRVCS and their doctors by providing a clearer pathway for diagnosis and treatment.

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This study looked at how nurses in Saudi Arabia view and practice followership, which is when they support and work towards the goals set by their leaders. The research involved interviewing seven nurses and found that many were unclear about what followership meant, with a focus on hierarchy limiting their involvement in decision-making. It also identified barriers like poor leadership and a lack of training, while suggesting that better leadership and training could improve teamwork and patient care. Who this helps: This benefits nurses and healthcare organizations aiming to improve teamwork and patient outcomes.

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This study focused on developing a new COVID-19 test using advanced techniques to identify specific proteins from the virus in nasal swabs. The test showed excellent accuracy, with a sensitivity of 92.4% and specificity of 97.4%, meaning it correctly identified most positive cases while also avoiding false positives. This rapid development, completed in just five months, sets a blueprint for quickly introducing similar tests in the future, which is critical for managing disease outbreaks effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing faster and more reliable COVID-19 testing.

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This study looked at how a public health response to COVID-19 in Western Australia affected hospitalizations for the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children. Researchers found that while RSV cases typically peak in winter, in 2020 there were no RSV hospitalizations in winter but a surge of 101 cases in summer. Notably, hospital stays were shorter and fewer children needed breathing support compared to previous years, with the average stay dropping from 3 days to just 2 days. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers treating young patients with RSV.

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This study looked at how consistently different doctors interpret X-rays of femur shaft fractures using a scoring system called the modified Radiographic Union Score for Tibia Fractures (mRUST). The research found that the mRUST score had a high reliability, with an overall reliability of 0.96 when different doctors evaluated the same images and 0.98 when the same doctors evaluated the images at different times. This is important because it means that both experienced surgeons and trainees can accurately assess the healing of femur fractures, leading to better patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with femur fractures and their doctors by ensuring accurate assessments of healing.

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The study looked at how Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) set up a thalassaemia care program in northeast Syria, a region affected by ongoing conflict. They found that providing essential services like blood transfusions, iron treatment, and psychosocial support was possible even in challenging conditions. This program showed that patients with thalassaemia can receive critical care despite the difficulties posed by war, potentially improving their lives. Who this helps: This benefits patients with thalassaemia and their families in conflict areas.

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This study looked at how health care clinicians—like doctors and nurses—work as followers within their teams, an area that has received less attention than leadership. Researchers reviewed 42 different studies and found that only about 17% focused on the specific followership and leadership styles of clinicians, while 31% examined their experiences and perceptions. The findings highlight the need for more research on how effective followership can improve patient care and safety, as well as a need for training in this area. Who this helps: This helps healthcare providers and their teams improve collaboration and patient safety.

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Researchers studied new technologies in spine surgery that are helping doctors better understand and treat their patients. These innovations lead to improved planning before surgery and better results during and after the procedures, potentially reducing complications. For example, advancements in materials and device design could lower common issues that arise after surgery, making recovery easier. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing spine surgery.

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A randomized trial compared standard tacrolimus versus extended-release tacrolimus (Envarsus) in kidney transplant recipients who had delayed graft function after transplant. The two formulations produced similar durations of delayed graft function and numbers of dialysis sessions, but patients on Envarsus required fewer dose adjustments because drug levels were more stable. Envarsus simplifies management during a clinically complex period without compromising recovery.

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This study examined how COVID-19 restrictions impacted hospital admissions for children in Western Australia, particularly for serious respiratory infections. In 2020, fewer children were admitted to the hospital for these infections, dropping by 89% initially, but after the restrictions ended, there was a staggering 579% increase in admissions for those under five years old. This matters because it highlights that while COVID-19 measures helped reduce some illnesses, they also led to a dramatic rise in respiratory infections when those measures stopped, particularly affecting very young children. Who this helps: Parents and caregivers of young children, as well as pediatric healthcare providers.

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This study examined the rise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases in Australia after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. Researchers found that two main types of RSV had been quietly spreading before a significant outbreak occurred in late 2020, leading to many hospitalizations in early 2021. This matters because it shows that easing COVID-19 controls can lead to unexpected and severe RSV outbreaks, highlighting the importance of monitoring respiratory viruses even after pandemic measures are relaxed. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially young children and the elderly, who are most at risk for severe RSV illness.

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This study looked at how well microwave ablation works for patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) who are waiting for a liver transplant. Researchers found that out of 88 patients, 80.7% successfully received transplants after about 8.5 months on the waiting list, with only a small number experiencing complications (5.1%). This matters because it shows that microwave ablation is a safe way to treat liver cancer while patients wait for their transplants, potentially improving their chances of successful surgery and survival. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer who are waiting for a transplant.

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This study focused on creating quick and effective tools to notify healthcare workers who may have been exposed to monkeypox and to monitor their symptoms. The researchers developed a mobile-friendly system that was ready within 4 days of the first confirmed monkeypox case in the U.S., allowing healthcare personnel to report exposure and assess their risk. These tools improved how healthcare workers were tracked and reminded about checking their symptoms, which is crucial for managing potential outbreaks effectively. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare workers and public health officials.

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This study looked at the different styles of followership among nurses in Saudi Arabian hospitals and how these styles were related to the nurses' backgrounds and experiences. Out of 355 surveyed nurses, 74% were identified as exemplary followers, while 19% were pragmatists, and only a small number were passive or conformist. These findings highlight that many nurses are active and engaged in their roles, which is important for effective teamwork and patient care. Who this helps: This benefits hospitals and nursing managers by informing them on how to better support and develop their nursing staff.

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This study examines the outcomes of people who receive simultaneous liver and kidney transplants (SLK), particularly looking at how the immune system reacts to the new kidneys. The research shows that SLK recipients tend to have lower rates of rejection for their transplanted kidneys—around 12% for SLK recipients compared to 30% for those who only get a kidney transplant. Understanding these outcomes is important because it helps refine transplant practices and ensures better long-term health for patients with both kidney and liver diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage liver disease who need transplants.

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This study looked at Indigenous social enterprises in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the U.S. to see how they help improve health and wellbeing in Indigenous communities. Out of 589 documents reviewed, 115 were useful, leading to a new framework with seven models of these enterprises. It found that enterprises fully owned and controlled by Indigenous people are more effective in boosting health and wellbeing by empowering individuals and strengthening cultural ties. Who this helps: Indigenous communities seeking better health outcomes.

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This study focused on a new testing method called CovMS that can quickly and accurately measure the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein in various samples like swabs, saliva, and blood. It showed a significant increase in sensitivity, capable of detecting very low levels of the virus—up to 1000 times better than traditional methods. This is important because it allows for rapid testing of many samples at once, helping to track COVID-19 and other infections more effectively, which can lead to better public health responses. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and patients by improving the speed and accuracy of virus detection.

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This study looked at children with complex gallbladder issues, particularly focused on those with gallstones and related problems. Over 15 years, 695 children had gallbladder surgery, with 457 of those surgeries related to stone disease and about 103 children showing more severe issues like blocked bile ducts or pancreatitis. The findings indicate that children with clear signs of serious bile duct problems may need additional procedures to clear the blockages before surgery, while those without such signs often do well with surgery alone. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients dealing with gallbladder issues and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at the safety of using livers from donors who died after their heart stopped beating (called "deceased after circulatory death" livers) for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a liver disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 99,000 liver transplants and found that while 5-year survival rates for these livers were lower (69% vs. 78.4% for brain death transplants), patients considered low-risk based on a specific scoring system had survival rates similar to those receiving livers from deceased brain donors. This matters because it indicates that with careful selection, livers from circulatory death donors can be successfully used for some patients, improving organ availability. Who this helps: This helps patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis in need of a liver transplant.

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This study looks at the role of followership in health care, which is how clinicians support their leaders and each other to improve patient care. Researchers found that while leadership has received a lot of attention, understanding followership is also crucial for clinical team performance and patient safety. By reviewing existing studies, they aim to highlight what has already been investigated and identify gaps in followership research. Who this helps: This benefits health care clinicians and their patients by promoting better teamwork and care quality.

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This study focused on improving how we understand and interpret COVID-19 test results by using a method called Bayesian network modeling. The researchers collected expert insights to create a detailed framework that outlines the process of testing from exposure to outcome. They developed and tested a model that illustrates how various factors affect test results, helping clarify the connection between a person's actual health status and their test outcome. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by giving better guidance on interpreting COVID-19 test results.

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This study looked at adults who received kidney transplants and needed dialysis due to delayed graft function (DGF). Out of 224 patients with DGF, 167 were chosen for analysis; 16 used peritoneal dialysis (PD) while 151 used hemodialysis (HD). The results showed that using PD didn't affect the success of the transplant, as there were no significant differences in complications or transplant outcomes between the two groups, indicating PD can be safely continued if needed. Who this helps: This helps kidney transplant patients who may need dialysis after surgery.

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This study examined the connections among about 20,000 neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which is the brain's main clock that helps regulate daily rhythms. Researchers discovered small groups of neurons, called "phaseoids," that show different timing patterns compared to the overall SCN activity, revealing a complex network structure within. The ability of these neurons to group with varying levels of coordination is crucial for how the SCN controls rhythms, indicating that the strength of connections among neurons influences how they work together. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying sleep disorders and circadian rhythms.

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The study focused on creating a new method to quickly and accurately detect the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, in samples like throat swabs and saliva. The researchers found that their method, which uses a technique called liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), can identify the virus with high accuracy: it was 100% accurate for negative results and 95% accurate for positive results when testing samples from asymptomatic individuals. This is important because it offers a reliable way to monitor infections and could enhance our ability to respond to future pandemics. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by offering a more effective way to detect COVID-19.

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The Child and Parent Emotion Study (CAPES) looked at how parents influence their children's emotional skills and mental health from pregnancy until they turn 12 years old. The researchers tracked 2,063 parents and 273 expecting parents over four years to understand how factors like the parents' beliefs about emotions, family dynamics, and the parents' and children's genders played a role in children's emotional growth. This study is important because it helps identify ways parents can better support their children's emotional development throughout early life stages. Who this helps: This benefits parents and caregivers who want to improve their children's emotional skills and well-being.