EDWARD WESLEY KNOWLES, M.D.

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This study looked at whether standardized intelligence testing can effectively predict if criminal defendants will regain the competence to stand trial after treatment. Out of 293 men evaluated, about 17% with average intelligence scores did not improve after 90 days, with the failure rate increasing significantly for those with lower scores, reaching 59.5% for those much below average. The findings show that intelligence scores are somewhat useful in measuring restoration likelihood, but overall, they are not very reliable, especially for individuals with significantly lower intelligence. Who this helps: This helps doctors and mental health professionals working with defendants deemed incompetent to stand trial.

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This study looked at how people in privileged groups manage their identities in situations where their advantages might create psychological conflict. Researchers developed a new way to measure these strategies and found that one approach is to openly justify social inequalities. They confirmed their findings through six different studies, which helps us understand how privileged groups deal with their status and provides a new tool for future research. Who this helps: This helps researchers and educators understand social dynamics and privilege in various contexts.

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This study looked at how two medications, dapagliflozin and ertugliflozin, affected horses with high insulin levels over short periods of time. After 30 days of treatment, insulin levels dropped significantly from an average of 170 to 28.7, while triglyceride levels increased from 0.5 to 1.0, and there were also slight increases in cholesterol and other lipid markers. This is important because it shows that while these medications can reduce insulin levels in horses, they may also cause some harmful increases in fat levels in the blood. Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and horse owners managing insulin-related health issues in horses.

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This study focused on improving the planning and implementation of a mass drug program aimed at fighting lymphatic filariasis in Haiti. Researchers held workshops with 356 stakeholders, which resulted in a better understanding of their roles and responsibilities, increasing engagement scores by over 1 point in key areas. As a result, drug coverage increased significantly in all five targeted areas in 2018, reaching set goals. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and local organizations involved in disease prevention efforts.

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This study looked at how white Americans understand and manage their racial identity in the context of social changes happening in the U.S. It identified five different groups based on their attitudes and strategies: 251 people defend their identity, 528 deny any issues related to it, 694 distance themselves from the idea of racial identity, 612 support dismantling racial structures, and 563 use a mix of these strategies. These findings show that how white Americans relate to their identity can affect their views on social change, which is important for understanding racial issues in society. Who this helps: This helps policymakers and community leaders who are working to address racial inequality.

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This research examined how political polarization affects health outcomes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that political divides can lead to worse health for individuals and communities, highlighting the urgent need to foster social trust to reduce these risks. Understanding and addressing this issue is important for improving public health overall. Who this helps: This helps patients and public health officials.

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This study looked at the experiences of doctors who completed the NIHR Clinical Lectureship (CL) program and explored what factors helped or hindered them in building a career in academic medicine after finishing. Out of 1,226 participants, most successfully continued into roles that combined clinical practice with research, but some opted to return to purely clinical jobs due to challenges like time pressure and competition for more funding. Understanding these experiences and challenges is crucial because it can help improve support for future doctors in similar programs, ultimately leading to more skilled researchers in the medical field. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and future clinical researchers.

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This research studied how playing video games affects people's aggression, focusing on the difficulty of the games and whether they contain violent content. In one study, participants played different versions of Tetris, while in another, they played virtual reality games. The results showed that higher difficulty levels led to increased hostility in virtual reality games, but the violent content didn't affect aggression at all. This matters because it suggests that how challenging a game is can influence feelings of frustration and aggression, while the violence in games might not have the same effect. Who this helps: This helps game developers and mental health professionals understand how game design can impact emotions and behavior.

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This study compared two medications, ravulizumab and eculizumab, for treating atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). Researchers analyzed data from 85 patients and found that while both drugs showed improvements in kidney function and quality of life after 26 weeks, there were no significant differences between the two treatments. This matters because it helps doctors and patients understand that ravulizumab, which can be given less frequently, is as effective as eculizumab for aHUS. Who this helps: Patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.

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This study looked at why some people in Britain call ambulances or go to emergency departments for minor health issues, like a cough or back pain. Researchers surveyed over 2,900 adults and found that 11% would contact an ambulance and 43% would go to the emergency department, particularly for issues like children's fevers and sore ribs. The reasons behind these choices linked to factors like low income, lack of transportation, and the perception that their symptoms might be serious, while many saw emergency departments as a convenient place for quick tests. Who this helps: This benefits patients who often seek emergency care for minor issues and health service providers looking to manage emergency room demands more effectively.

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This study looked at how certain genes influence cognitive abilities, aiming to find new drug targets to improve mental functions in people with severe mental illnesses. Researchers analyzed data from over 373,000 individuals and found 241 areas in the genome linked to cognition, uncovering 76 genes that could be involved. They identified 16 of these genes as possible targets for existing drugs that might be used in new ways to enhance cognitive function, which is important for improving the treatment options for patients with conditions like schizophrenia and depression. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe mental illnesses and their doctors by identifying potential new treatment options.

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This study looked at why young adults (ages 18-30) often seek urgent care for health issues that aren't really emergencies. Interviews with 16 people revealed that anxiety about their symptoms, struggles with mental health, and pressure from others influenced their decisions to seek help. The researchers found that young adults want to maintain their daily routines, like work or school, and their choices are shaped by their personal experiences rather than just convenience. Who this helps: This research benefits young adults who might be misusing emergency services and the healthcare professionals who care for them.

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This study looked at horses who underwent emergency surgery for colic to see if levels of two proteins, serum amyloid A and plasma fibrinogen, could help predict complications and survival after surgery. Out of 300 horses, more than half (52%) experienced complications, but 83.7% survived long enough to leave the hospital. Higher levels of fibrinogen when admitted were linked to a greater chance of complications, and lower levels of serum amyloid A five days post-surgery were associated with better survival outcomes. Who this helps: This information benefits veterinarians and horse owners by improving post-surgery care and outcomes for horses.

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This study looked at whether a mobile app called Sway can predict falls in people with Parkinson's disease. Researchers tested 59 participants and found that a combination of past fall history and other balance assessments correctly identified 85% of those likely to fall again. However, the Sway app was less effective than other tests, showing that it didn't add much value beyond existing methods. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers managing Parkinson's patients.

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This study looked at how genes influence the way the folds in the brain's surface form, specifically focusing on local areas less than an inch wide. Researchers used advanced brain imaging on two large groups of people and found that genetic effects on the thickness of brain regions can lead to variations in folding patterns. They discovered that these genetic influences vary in strength across different areas, with stronger effects seen in certain regions like the tops of the folds. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and doctors studying brain development and disorders related to brain structure.

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This study looked at how well British adults understand health information and their ability to communicate with healthcare providers. It found that many people struggle in these areas: 19.4% find it difficult to read and understand health information, and 23.2% have trouble discussing health issues with doctors. People with lower health literacy are often those who are socially disadvantaged, have disabilities, or lack formal education, which is concerning because it can lead to worse health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially those with lower education levels, disabilities, or who live in deprived areas.

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This study looked at how different emergency medical services (EMS) in England provide telephone advice to patients instead of sending an ambulance. It found that the way services approach this advice varies significantly: for example, some services see it as a way to manage resources, while others view it as a method to reduce risk. These differences impact how often telephone advice is given, with some services reporting it 12% of the time compared to others, which use it much less frequently. Who this helps: This benefits patients by providing them with more appropriate care options and reducing unnecessary ambulance calls.

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A research study looked at over 300,000 people to identify 148 specific genetic areas that affect how well people think and understand information. The findings reveal important links between genetics and cognitive abilities, highlighting the influence of these genes on our mental functions. Understanding these genetic factors can lead to better strategies for addressing cognitive decline and improving brain health. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on cognitive health and brain function.

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This study looked at how the shape and growth of hooves in working animals, like horses and donkeys, affect their ability to work. Researchers found that hoof growth stress can lead to misshapen hooves because of how these animals' feet are built, resulting in a "dished" appearance over time. Understanding this can help improve the health and performance of these animals, which are crucial for transport and agriculture in many developing countries. Who this helps: This helps working animal owners, veterinarians, and farmers in developing countries.

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Researchers studied the links between schizophrenia, cognitive ability, and educational achievement using genetic data. They found 235 genetic markers related to these areas and identified two main biological pathways: one that develops early in life and affects cognitive skills, and another that operates in adulthood related to how connections in the brain are pruned. Understanding these connections helps to explain why some people with schizophrenia can still achieve high levels of education despite having lower cognitive abilities. Who this helps: This benefits patients with schizophrenia and their healthcare providers by providing insights into their abilities and support needs.

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This study looked at what happens to people’s chances of surviving during emergencies when emergency departments (EDs) are closed or downgraded. Researchers found that although there was a small increase in the risk of death from serious conditions (2.3%), there was no clear evidence that the overall death rate changed after ED closures. This matters because it raises questions about the safety and effectiveness of concentrating emergency care resources in fewer locations when demand is high. Who this helps: This helps patients in need of emergency care and healthcare policymakers.

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This study looked at why families with children aged 4-16 aren't using the 'Eat Well Move More' weight management service, which teaches healthy eating and exercise over 12 weeks. Researchers spoke with healthcare providers like doctors and school nurses and found that barriers for referrals included poor parent involvement, children's independence, and worries about how weight management letters might affect families. These issues make it tough for doctors and nurses to talk about weight and recommend the service. Who this helps: This helps families with children struggling with weight management and the healthcare professionals trying to support them.

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Researchers studied data from over 300,000 people to identify 148 specific genes linked to general cognitive function, which relates to how well people think and reason. They found that about 4.3% of differences in cognitive ability could be predicted based on these genetic markers, and they also discovered connections between cognitive function and various health issues like eyesight and longevity. This research helps us understand the genetic factors influencing intelligence and could lead to better insights into cognitive health over a person's life. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare professionals looking to understand cognitive health.

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This study looked at the genetics of intelligence by analyzing the DNA of nearly 270,000 people. Researchers found 205 areas in the genome linked to intelligence, with 190 of these being new discoveries, and identified over 1,000 related genes. This research is important because it improves our understanding of how intelligence is connected to various health issues, including a protective relationship with Alzheimer's disease and ADHD. Who this helps: This helps researchers, doctors, and patients seeking insights into the genetic factors influencing intelligence and related health conditions.

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This study addresses criticisms of a previous research paper that used a new method called Multi-Trait Analysis of GWAS to examine how genetics affects cognitive abilities. The researchers argue that their findings, which link genetics to brain function and potential drug targets, are valid and not flawed as suggested, emphasizing that their results are equally relevant to understanding both education and intelligence. This is important because it helps clarify how genetic research can lead to better insights into cognitive health and possible treatments. Who this helps: Patients looking for new treatments for cognitive issues.

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This study looked at why rates of ambulance service "non-conveyance"—when patients receive advice over the phone instead of being taken to the hospital—vary so much between different ambulance services in England. Researchers interviewed 49 people from ten regional ambulance services and found that the way each service views and manages non-conveyance differs widely based on leadership culture, staff training, and cooperation with other healthcare services. Understanding these differences is important because it can help improve patient care and increase the effectiveness of ambulance services. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by ensuring better use of ambulance resources and improving emergency care delivery.

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This study looked at factors that contribute to delays in patient flow out of emergency departments (EDs) in England. It found that larger hospitals in bigger areas, with more patients needing to be admitted and fewer available beds, were more likely to experience these delays. Specifically, hospitals with high admission rates and a lot of patients leaving without being seen were at greater risk. Understanding these patterns is crucial because exit block can delay care for everyone, leading to longer wait times and potentially worse health outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients visiting emergency departments.

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This research looked at a problem called exit block in emergency departments, which happens when patients waiting for hospital beds cannot get one in a reasonable time. The study found that exit block is more common in crowded areas and can be linked to how full a hospital's beds are. Increasing the number of hospital beds and staff may help reduce this issue, which is important because it can lead to overcrowding in emergency rooms and affect patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients in emergency departments and hospital staff.

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This study examined the genetic factors contributing to general cognitive function by analyzing data from over 35,000 healthy individuals of European descent. Researchers found two new genetic locations associated with cognitive performance and estimated that about 21.5% of cognitive abilities can be linked to common genetic variations. Understanding these genetic influences is important because it may help researchers develop better treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions and improve educational strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with cognitive impairments and doctors seeking to understand the genetic aspects of these issues.

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This study created two new tools to measure how diabetes affects people's lives, focusing on emotional health, eating, and social interactions. The first tool, DHP-3D, rated life quality from 0.983 (best) to 0.717 (worst), while the second tool, DHP-5D, added hypoglycemic attacks and vitality, with scores ranging from 0.979 to 0.618. These measures will help in understanding the specific impacts of diabetes on well-being, making it easier to assess and compare treatment options. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at genetic factors that influence overall cognitive ability by analyzing data from different studies as part of the COGENT consortium. The study identified several new genetic markers linked to cognitive function, finding that a particular gene variant was associated with a 0.2 to 0.5 point increase in IQ scores. Understanding these genetic connections can help improve our knowledge of cognitive function and its variations among individuals. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare providers, and individuals interested in cognitive health.

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This study explored the genetic factors related to general cognitive ability by examining data from over 107,000 people. Researchers found 70 specific genetic locations linked to intelligence, along with connections to genes involved in certain intellectual disabilities. They also identified two potential drug targets that could influence brain activity, which may be relevant for treating cognitive issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with cognitive impairments and doctors looking for new treatment options.

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This study looked at why some patients end up in emergency rooms when they might not need to be there, examining six different emergency care systems in England. Researchers found significant differences in how available help was before patients chose to go to the emergency room, the quality of care they received while there, and the support for getting them home afterward. For instance, in some areas, less access to out-of-hours doctor services made emergency visits more likely, while in others, strong support systems helped keep patients out of the hospital. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and healthcare providers by highlighting ways to improve emergency care and reduce unnecessary hospital visits.

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This study looked at how the introduction of a national telephone service, NHS 111, affected people's views on urgent care in England. Researchers found that even after NHS 111 was launched, there was no significant change in how satisfied people felt about their urgent care experiences or the health service overall; for example, the percentage of people rating their recent urgent care experience as excellent stayed the same at 43%. This is important because it suggests that simply adding a phone service did not improve public perceptions or access to urgent care. Who this helps: Patients seeking urgent care services.

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This study looked at the brains of 872 Mexican-American individuals to explore how genetics influence the size of the amygdala, a brain area related to rewards, and the risk of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). The findings revealed that people with a history of alcohol abuse had smaller amygdala volumes, and those without AUD but with a family history of alcohol problems also had smaller amygdalas. Importantly, the research showed a genetic link between smaller amygdala sizes and a higher risk of developing AUD, indicating that these brain differences may exist before any alcohol-related damage occurs. Who this helps: This helps patients with a family history of alcoholism understand their risk and guides doctors in identifying at-risk individuals.

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This study looked at families with a history of bipolar disorder to understand how the structure of their brains relates to their behavior and thinking abilities. Researchers found that certain brain areas, especially in the cortex, were linked to better memory and thinking skills, particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder. The study highlighted that while age affects cognitive abilities for all, having a larger brain volume may help protect against age-related decline in thinking skills, especially for those with bipolar disorder. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with bipolar disorder and their healthcare providers by improving understanding of brain function related to their condition.

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This study looked at a specific genetic region linked to how long people stay in school and its connection to their overall thinking skills. Researchers found that a genetic variant (rs1906252) was significantly associated with cognitive ability in a large group of nearly 68,200 individuals, showing strong evidence that genetics play a role in both education and cognitive function. This matters because understanding these genetic factors can help shed light on the causes of psychiatric disorders that often come with cognitive challenges. Who this helps: This helps patients with psychiatric conditions, their families, and healthcare providers by improving understanding of cognitive deficits.

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This study looked at the connection between general cognitive ability and the risk of developing schizophrenia, focusing on the genetic factors involved. Researchers found that people with schizophrenia had lower genetic scores linked to cognitive ability, while higher genetic risk for schizophrenia was also associated with lower cognitive ability. This is important because it suggests that the same genetic variations might influence both cognitive skills and the likelihood of developing schizophrenia. Who this helps: This information helps patients, their families, and doctors understand the genetic links between cognitive function and schizophrenia.

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This study looked at how our genes affect the thickness of certain brain regions as we age, using data from 902 people. Researchers found that while the overall genetic influence on brain thickness stayed the same throughout adulthood, different genes played a role at various ages, especially in certain areas of the brain related to emotions and sensory processing. Understanding these changes is important for better insights into brain health and how genetics contribute to brain-related conditions over time. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors understand aging in the brain, which can lead to better treatments for patients with neurological disorders.

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This study looked at how many people in England knew about and used a new urgent care telephone service called NHS 111, about nine to ten months after it launched. The researchers found that 59% of people had heard of the service, but only 9% had actually used it. Certain groups, like older adults and males, were less likely to use NHS 111, which raises concerns about equal access to urgent care. Who this helps: This information benefits health policy makers and service providers aiming to improve access to care for all populations.