GLEN D. ROWE, D.O.

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This study explored how age and the strength of stimulation affect the connection between two brain areas involved in motor control—the supplementary motor area (SMA) and primary motor cortex (M1)—in younger, middle-aged, and older adults. Researchers tested 73 healthy adults across these age groups and found that older adults performed worse on motor tasks compared to younger and middle-aged adults, but no significant differences were observed in brain connectivity or motor performance between the younger and middle-aged groups. Understanding these differences is important because it highlights age-related declines in motor function, which can help tailor interventions for improving motor skills in older adults. Who this helps: This helps older adults who may experience motor function decline.

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This study looked at how a 6-week structured exercise program affects inflammation in adults who had minor burns more than a year ago. Researchers found that while participants significantly improved their muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness, the levels of a specific inflammatory marker (TNF-α) did not change much after exercising. This is important because it shows that exercise is safe and helpful for burn survivors, but because their inflammation levels were not high to begin with, the effect of exercise on inflammation couldn't be fully assessed. Who this helps: Patients who have experienced non-severe burns.

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This study looked at how a free online program called the Learning the Ropes Foundationswebinar can help older adults at risk of dementia improve their brain health. Out of the 78 participants who took part, 82% felt they could use the information in their daily lives, and 90% were motivated to make at least one positive change. A follow-up showed that 74% actually implemented one of those changes after a month, indicating the program is effective in encouraging healthier behaviors. Who this helps: This benefits older adults with mild cognitive impairment and their families.

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This study examined how well different wearable devices, especially the Apple Watch, can track step counts while people walk slowly or shuffle, which is important for patients recovering in hospitals. Researchers tested twelve devices in various placements (on the arm, waist, and leg) and found that the Apple Watch was the most accurate, especially when worn on the waist, providing reliable step counts that matched manual counts closely. This matters because better tracking can help doctors understand and improve patient recovery through increased activity levels. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from surgery or illness who need to increase their mobility.

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This study looked at how surgeons learn to perform robotic mitral valve repairs over time, analyzing data from 1,410 patients treated between 2005 and 2023. The researchers found that after the first 94 surgeries, surgeons achieved better-than-expected results, with an extremely low death rate of 0.3% and a success rate of 99.5% in repairing the valves. This is important because it means that experienced surgical teams can teach new surgeons to perform these advanced procedures safely and effectively right from the start. Who this helps: This helps patients with mitral valve issues and the surgeons treating them.

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This study looked at the outcomes of robotic surgery for patients with a heart condition called Barlow disease, compared to those with other types of mitral valve issues. They found that after 5 years, 92% of patients with Barlow disease did not experience severe mitral regurgitation, which is similar to the 96% rate in patients without Barlow disease. These results suggest that robotic repairs for Barlow disease can be done safely and effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients with Barlow disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at patients undergoing robotic surgery for a heart condition known as degenerative mitral regurgitation. Researchers found that nearly all patients (99.3%) could have their condition repaired, but in 19 cases, surgeons needed to make extra repairs during the operation. Patients who were left with a small amount of leaking (mild residual regurgitation) after surgery had a worse long-term outlook, including a nearly three times higher risk of death and significantly higher chances of needing further treatment over eight years. Who this helps: This helps patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at whether closing a small pouch in the heart, called the left atrial appendage, during mitral valve repair surgery helps prevent strokes in patients who do not have recent atrial fibrillation (a type of irregular heartbeat). The findings showed that after the procedure became routine, only 6 strokes and 1 transient ischemic attack occurred in patients who had the pouch closed, compared to 14 strokes and 5 attacks in those who didn't, meaning the closure reduced stroke risk significantly. Closing this pouch during surgery seems to be a safe choice and can greatly help lower the chances of future strokes. Who this helps: Patients undergoing mitral repair surgery without recent atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at how economic disadvantages affected the health outcomes of patients undergoing surgery for a heart condition known as degenerative mitral regurgitation. Out of over 10,000 patients, 9.7% came from economically distressed communities and experienced lower survival rates (85.4% compared to 89.7% for others) and higher rates of heart failure readmissions (11.5% versus 7.4%) after three years. This matters because it highlights the need for targeted support and resources for patients from these disadvantaged backgrounds to improve their surgical outcomes. Who this helps: Patients from low-income communities facing heart surgery.

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This study followed a 3-week-old baby with serious health issues, including a severe rash and breathing problems. Researchers discovered a new mutation in a gene called SAMD9L, which caused a rare autoinflammatory disease. Identifying this condition is crucial for providing the right treatment and care, improving the baby's chances of recovery. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients by guiding proper diagnosis and treatment for similar cases of newborn disease.

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This study looked at the rates of "failure to rescue" (FTR), which means not being able to save patients after complications from heart surgeries in children. Researchers found that from 2009 to 2019, the overall FTR rate was 7.3%, but it was higher for Black children at 8.5%, compared to 5.9% for White children. The findings highlight that if Black children received care at the same hospitals as White children, the FTR difference would decrease by nearly 50%, indicating hospital choice plays a significant role in these outcomes. Who this helps: This research benefits children undergoing heart surgery, particularly Black patients and their families.

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This study looked at how burn injuries affect the brain and lead to long-lasting problems with movement and sensation for survivors. Researchers found that brain changes due to inflammation and pain are linked to these difficulties, and that the brain's ability to adapt (neuroplasticity) is important for recovery. The findings highlight the need for new treatments, like safe brain stimulation techniques, which could help improve the quality of life for burn survivors. Who this helps: Burn survivors who are struggling with recovery.

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This study looked at the outcomes of two heart valve replacement methods in older patients with a condition called bicuspid aortic stenosis. Researchers found that while there was no difference in death risk between transcatheter and surgical methods in the first six months, patients who had the transcatheter procedure faced a higher risk of death and heart failure readmissions after six months, with a mortality risk of 2.16 times greater from six months to three years. This is important because it helps doctors understand the long-term risks associated with both procedures, which can help them better inform patients about their options. Who this helps: This benefits patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis and their doctors in making treatment decisions.

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This study looked at the effects of minimally invasive lung transplantation compared to traditional methods on recovery and pain management by analyzing data from 170 patients. It found that patients who had minimally invasive surgery spent less time in the intensive care unit (4.3 days vs. 8.2 days) and in the hospital (13 days vs. 17 days) and required fewer opioid prescriptions at discharge (38% vs. 66%). These findings are important because they suggest that minimally invasive techniques can lead to faster recovery and less reliance on pain medication. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing lung transplantation and their doctors by offering improved surgical options.

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This study looked at how burn injuries affect the brain and nervous system. It found that burns can lead to serious changes in brain function, such as difficulties with movement, sensation, and thinking, due to inflammation caused by the injury. Understanding these effects is important because it can help develop better treatments to support recovery and improve the quality of life for burn patients. Who this helps: This helps burn patients and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how people with mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) use information they encounter without consciously realizing it. The researchers found that individuals with aMCI performed better on a task involving word fragments when they had previously seen related words, scoring higher than older adults without cognitive issues. This matters because it shows that people with aMCI can improve their cognitive skills by leveraging implicit learning, which may lead to new ways to help them. Who this helps: This helps patients with mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers.

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This study looked at the outcomes of the Ross procedure, a heart surgery, in over 2,800 children across North America from 2000 to 2018. It found that while neonates (under 30 days) had a high operative mortality rate of 24.1%, older children and teenagers had much lower rates, with only 0.8% mortality in teenagers. The research shows that performing this surgery at high-volume centers results in better outcomes for younger patients, highlighting the need for specialized care for infants and neonates. Who this helps: This benefits young patients and their families by identifying the importance of experienced surgical teams.

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This study looked at how a component taken from fat tissue, called stromal vascular fraction (SVF), can help improve blood vessel function in older adults suffering from coronary microvascular disease. Researchers found that SVF significantly reduced harmful oxidative stress and restored the ability of blood vessels to widen, which is measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), back to youthful levels. For instance, FMD, which decreases with aging, was restored by SVF, highlighting its potential as a treatment for improving blood flow in older patients. Who this helps: Patients with coronary microvascular disease, particularly older adults.

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This study looked at heart transplants using donors who died after their heart stopped beating, a method that has gained traction in the U.S. since late 2019. Researchers found that the percentage of heart transplants from these donors rose from 2.5% to 6.8% over two years, and survival rates for patients receiving these transplants were nearly the same as for those receiving hearts from donors whose brains had died (92.6% vs. 92.1%). This approach could significantly increase the number of available donor hearts, improving options for patients in need of transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients waiting for heart transplants.

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This study focused on heart transplants for patients suffering from heart issues related to COVID-19. Out of over 6,300 heart transplants from 2020 to 2022, only 12 patients (0.2%) had heart problems due to COVID-19, while 98 had similar issues not related to the virus. All COVID-19 patients survived without graft failure for at least 257 days after their transplant, which is a promising outcome compared to 88.5% survival in non-COVID-19 patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with COVID-19-related heart conditions and their doctors.

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This study looked at the results of heart surgeries that focus on the tricuspid valve from 2011 to 2020, analyzing data from over 14,000 cases. They found that about 7.3% of patients died after the surgery, with higher risks for those with severe heart failure, emergency surgeries, or tricuspid valve replacements. Importantly, surgeries done while the heart was still beating led to fewer complications, like needing a pacemaker, than traditional procedures that stopped the heart. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing tricuspid valve surgeries and their doctors by providing insights for better treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how caregivers of children with atopic dermatitis seek information online. Out of 210 surveyed, 83.8% used websites and social media for information about the condition, with varying opinions on what sources they trust. It's important for doctors to be aware of these online resources to better support and guide their patients and caregivers. Who this helps: This helps caregivers and doctors.

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This study looked at patients suffering from severe heart problems (cardiogenic shock) who received two types of heart pumps (Impella 5.0 and 5.5) in a busy hospital from 2014 to 2022. Out of 221 patients, about 70% (155 patients) survived until their heart pumps were removed. The newer Impella 5.5 had a lower chance of needing replacement compared to the older model, which means it's potentially a better option for patients in critical condition. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with severe heart issues who may need temporary support to recover or prepare for a heart transplant.

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This study followed a 17-year-old boy who had a large area of skin growths known as keratinocytic epidermal nevi and also had fluid build-up around his heart. The skin growth showed a genetic change called a KRAS mutation, while tests revealed that the fluid around his heart was due to an unusual problem with his lymphatic system. This case is important because it shows that widespread skin growths can be linked to other serious health issues, which doctors need to be aware of. Who this helps: This helps patients with skin growths and their doctors in diagnosing related health conditions.

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This study looked at children in the U.S. who had heart transplants, focusing on those who had to undergo a second transplant. Out of over 8,100 children studied between 2000 and 2021, about 5% had repeat transplants. The findings showed that repeat transplant patients had a lower chance of surviving for ten years without further complications (51.4%) compared to those receiving their first transplant (70.5%), especially if their second transplant was less than 3.6 years after the first. Who this helps: This research helps doctors understand the risks faced by children needing repeat heart transplants, improving care for these patients.

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This study examined how the age difference between heart donors and adolescent recipients affects survival rates after heart transplants. Researchers analyzed data from 2,855 teens and found that those with a donor at least 11 years older had a 10-year survival rate of only 54.6%, compared to 66.9% for those with smaller age differences. This matters because a larger age gap was linked to a higher risk of death, which can guide better donor selection for young patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving decision-making in heart transplant procedures for adolescents.

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Researchers looked at how well robotic surgery works for fixing people’s mitral valves after a previous less invasive repair failed. Out of nine patients who had robotic surgery, 88.9% had their valves successfully repaired, and 87.5% were free from severe leaking of the valve after about two years. This is important because it shows that robotic surgery can be an effective option for patients who need further treatment after an initial procedure fails. Who this helps: This helps patients with mitral valve issues who have had previous unsuccessful surgeries.

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This study examined how well a specific robotic surgery technique helped patients with a heart valve problem called mitral valve regurgitation, primarily affecting the valve's leaflets. Out of 1,036 patients who underwent this surgery, 87% had degenerative disease, and researchers found that 92% of those with a specific type of leaflet problem (posterior leaflet prolapse) remained free from significant valve leakage ten years after surgery, compared to 83% of those with other types. This is important because it shows that the standardized repair technique is highly effective for certain patients, helping to ensure better long-term outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with degenerative mitral valve issues, especially those with posterior leaflet prolapse.

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This study looked at how a specific cell therapy using fat-derived cells (SVF) can help improve blood vessel function in older rats. The researchers found that old rats treated with these cells showed a significant restoration of a type of receptor involved in blood flow regulation, which dropped from about 50% of the young levels without treatment. The results are important because they suggest that this therapy could help address age-related issues in blood circulation, potentially leading to better heart health in older individuals. Who this helps: This helps older patients by improving their heart and blood vessel function.

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This paper looks at new treatments for problems with blood vessels, particularly the tiny ones that supply organs and tissues. Researchers found that various therapies using cells and tiny particles released from cells (called exosomes) can improve blood flow and tissue health. For example, these methods may address multiple factors that disrupt blood vessel function, offering a more complete solution to vascular issues rather than just treating symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients with conditions that affect blood flow, such as those with heart disease or diabetes.

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This study looked at how cells from fat tissue can help grow new blood vessels in a special rat model. Researchers found that when they added fat-derived cells to rat tissue, there was a significant increase in new blood vessel formation, with treated tissues showing a much larger vascularized area compared to untreated ones. Specifically, new vessels were seen forming connections and enhancing the existing blood vessel network, which is important for healing and tissue regeneration. Who this helps: This benefits patients who undergo fat cell transplants for treatments, especially those needing improved blood supply in healing tissues.

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This study looked at how aging affects the small blood vessels in the heart and how a treatment using cells derived from fat (called SVF therapy) can improve their function. The researchers found that in older rats, aging led to unhealthy changes in the tiny power plants of cells (mitochondria), marked by increasing fragmentation, reduced energy production, and poorer blood vessel response. However, after SVF therapy, these issues were significantly reversed, leading to better blood flow and function in the heart's microvessels. Who this helps: This helps older patients at risk for heart disease.

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This study examined how age affects a treatment derived from fat tissue, known as the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which helps with healing after injury. The researchers found that SVF from young rats promoted better blood vessel growth after injury compared to SVF from older rats, with only the young SVF increasing the vascular area by a significant amount. This matters because understanding how aging impacts the effectiveness of SVF can improve treatments for older patients recovering from injuries. Who this helps: This helps older patients recovering from injuries and their doctors seeking effective therapies.

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This study looked at whether immunocompromised patients are at a higher risk of infections after Mohs micrographic surgery and if giving them antibiotics afterwards helps. The researchers reviewed almost 5,900 cases and found that infection rates were similar for both immunocompromised patients (2.1%) and those with normal immune systems (1.6%). They concluded that antibiotics do not reduce the risk of infection for immunocompromised patients unless there are other significant risk factors. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors making treatment decisions for immunocompromised patients undergoing Mohs surgery.

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This study looked at the differences between men and women in their chances of dying after serious complications following heart surgery in California and New York. Researchers found that 8% of women who faced these complications died, compared to only 4.8% of men, indicating women have a higher risk. These findings are important because they reveal ongoing issues in how care is provided to women after heart surgery, suggesting the need for better practices to improve outcomes for female patients. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly women undergoing cardiac surgery.

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This study looked at whether exercising can help reduce inflammation in people with burn injuries. Fifteen participants with burns covering 5-20% of their bodies took part in a six-week exercise program, and nearly all (100%) completed it successfully, showing that it’s possible to run this kind of study even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings suggest that exercise can make a difference for burn patients and that such exercise programs are feasible for future studies. Who this helps: This helps burn patients looking for ways to manage their recovery.

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This study looked at how virtual art activities can improve the wellbeing of older residents in long-term care facilities. Thirty-one residents participated in two 30-minute art sessions each week for six weeks, and the results showed that many reported better psychological and health-related wellness after the program. Specifically, participants who were younger, open to new experiences, or had lower initial moods responded especially well to the intervention. This is important because it shows that virtual arts activities can provide valuable mental health benefits for older adults who may not have access to traditional programs. Who this helps: This helps older adults in long-term care and their caregivers.

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This study examined how aging affects blood vessel function, specifically how poor performance of mitochondria (the energy-producing parts of cells) leads to reduced blood flow and contributes to heart-related issues like chest pain and artery diseases. Researchers found that aging is linked to increased oxidative stress and poor regulation of blood vessel relaxation, both of which can worsen heart conditions. This matters because improving blood flow can help manage symptoms and potentially prevent serious heart problems as people age. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart conditions, particularly older adults.

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This study looked at adult patients in the U.S. who had cardiac arrest and received a treatment called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) from 2006 to 2014. Out of 782 patients, 60.4% died in the hospital, with older age, being male, lower income, and certain health conditions increasing the risk of death. Understanding who is most likely to benefit from ECMO can help doctors make better treatment decisions for patients with cardiac arrest. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and patients understand the factors that influence survival after cardiac arrest.

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This study looked at the outcomes of heart surgery for patients who had a previous minimally invasive mitral valve repair that didn’t fully work. Researchers analyzed data from 524 patients, finding that 30-day mortality after surgery was 10.2% for those undergoing isolated mitral surgery, which is higher than expected, and predictors of higher risk included higher age and urgent surgery needs. This matters because it shows that effective repair after a failed minimally invasive procedure is rare, which might influence treatment decisions, especially for younger patients with specific types of heart problems. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors making decisions about mitral valve repair options.

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This study looked at two types of brain neurons that help control how our bodies use energy and maintain bone health. Researchers found that targeting these neurons with a specific treatment increased energy use and boosted bone mass in mice; for example, they saw an increase in bone formation while reducing factors that break down bone. This research is important because it offers insights into how we might improve bone health and manage weight through brain signaling. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for osteoporosis or obesity, as well as their doctors seeking new treatment options.

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This research paper looks at how healthy hearts change as people get older, including their ability to pump blood and the condition of blood vessels and heart valves. It found that these normal aging changes can limit the heart's ability to recover from serious issues like heart attacks and heart failure. Understanding these changes is important because it helps identify older individuals at higher risk for heart problems and suggests ways to treat these issues effectively. Who this helps: Patients, especially older adults at risk of heart disease.

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This study looked at a new way to help older adults with memory problems remember names associated with faces. Researchers found that when these individuals saw some names again during an unrelated task, they remembered the names better later on—by about 25%—compared to those who didn't see them again. This is important because it suggests that simple memory tricks can help people with early signs of Alzheimer's disease improve their memory. Who this helps: Patients with mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease.

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This study examined how well individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) can handle two tasks at once, like thinking and moving simultaneously. The researchers found that people with early signs of HD had significant difficulties, especially when trying to think while doing a physical task; these challenges were linked to damage in specific areas of the brain. The assessment methods used in the study were shown to be reliable, meaning they can consistently measure these dual-tasking abilities. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Huntington's disease and their healthcare providers by highlighting the cognitive and motor challenges they face.

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This study looked at how muscle strength decreases after doing intense exercises multiple times. Researchers found that after six sets of high-intensity leg exercises, the ability to produce force dropped by about 12-17%, and muscle activity decreased by around 6-9%. Caffeine helped improve muscle strength and activity but didn't significantly change other functions related to muscle control. Who this helps: This helps athletes and fitness enthusiasts understand how their muscles respond to intense workouts.

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This study looked at how treating older rats with a specific type of stem cell therapy (called stromal vascular fraction, or SVF) affects blood flow in their hearts. The researchers found that after treatment, older rats showed improved blood flow response and less heart stiffness compared to those who received a different treatment; specifically, the SVF therapy markedly improved heart function compared to no treatment. This is important because it suggests that SVF therapy could help restore heart function in aging individuals. Who this helps: This helps older patients experiencing heart issues.