DR. JAMES BOOTH BURKE, MD

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This study looked at whether having a normal temperature when admitted to the hospital affects the chances of survival for dogs with a serious condition called septic peritonitis. Out of 60 dogs treated, 49 (82%) survived regardless of their temperature; 82% of those with high temperatures survived the same as those without. This finding is important because it shows that temperature at admission isn’t a reliable predictor of survival in these dogs, helping vets focus on other critical factors instead. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners by clarifying that body temperature alone shouldn't be a cause for concern regarding survival chances in these cases.

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This study looked at how common digestive and liver problems are in adults with cerebral palsy. Researchers found that issues like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affected 3% to 42% of these individuals, while constipation affected 4% to 67%, and swallowing difficulties occurred in 6% to 77%. These conditions are more prevalent in adults with cerebral palsy than in others, highlighting the need for better screening and treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits adults with cerebral palsy and their healthcare providers.

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This study explored a new liquid thickener called Precise Thick®N INSTANT (PTI) for people with swallowing difficulties (called oropharyngeal dysphagia or OD). Researchers found that PTI thickened drinks were significantly more enjoyable to consume, scoring an average of about 3.83 points higher on a 10-point scale than traditional powdered thickeners. This matters because it can improve hydration and quality of life for patients who have trouble swallowing, making it easier and more pleasant for them to drink liquids. Who this helps: Patients with swallowing difficulties.

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This study looked at how well people could collect stool samples at home for research on gut bacteria in a large cancer study in Australia. Out of 1,093 people invited to participate, 610 (56%) agreed, and 88% of them sent back a sample. The study found that using different methods to collect the samples led to similar results in DNA quality and gut bacteria profiles, meaning it works well for research purposes. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and patients by improving our understanding of gut health and its impact on diseases.

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This study focused on a condition called clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), which is linked to various aging-related diseases. Researchers analyzed saliva samples from 2,328 participants and found that 15% (347 individuals) had CHIP, identified through specific gene variants, while 62% were negative and 23% fell into an indeterminate category due to unclear results. This framework for identifying CHIP can help standardize how patients are assessed, which is important for better managing their health and risk of disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of aging-related diseases and their doctors.

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This study looked at a new ultrasound tool called VExUS that helps doctors see if patients with severe kidney disease (end-stage renal disease) have too much fluid in their blood vessels. Researchers examined 46 patients before and after they had dialysis, finding that the VExUS score dropped by a median of 1.5 points after fluid removal, showing that the tool can effectively track changes in fluid status. This is important because it helps doctors better manage fluid levels in these patients, which can lead to improved care. Who this helps: Patients with end-stage renal disease.

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This study looked at how far older adults in the U.S. are willing to travel for different types of medical care. It found that many are okay with traveling over an hour for primary and specialty care—specifically, 60.3% would travel at least 60 minutes for primary care, while 84.4% are willing to do the same for specialty care. Factors like income, education level, and individual health played a role, with higher-income individuals willing to travel over 22 minutes longer for specialty care than those with lower incomes. Who this helps: This benefits older patients who may need to evaluate their options for medical care.

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This study looked at the mental health challenges faced by young people with cerebral palsy (CP) and their parents, focusing on their experiences and access to mental health support. Researchers interviewed 19 participants aged 6 to 25, identifying key issues such as the difficulty in recognizing mental health problems, barriers to accessing services, and the connection between mental health and various life challenges. The findings show that mental health issues are often overlooked, emphasizing the need for earlier detection and better support systems for these individuals and their families. Who this helps: Patients with cerebral palsy and their families.

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This study looked at the different types of headaches that people with brain tumors experience and how to treat them effectively. It found that headaches can result from increased pressure in the brain or other factors related to the tumor, with symptoms varying from migraines to tension headaches. Treating these headaches requires a comprehensive approach that combines medications and other therapies to enhance patients' quality of life. Who this helps: Patients with brain tumors and their doctors.

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This study focused on a new treatment method for severe Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I), a genetic disorder that leads to serious developmental and cognitive delays. Researchers tested a gene therapy called RGX-111 in a 20-month-old boy who had never received traditional stem cell transplants, and the treatment was safe with no serious side effects. After more than five years, the boy shows continued improvement in his cognitive and motor skills, performing better than other children with the same condition who did not receive transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe MPS I and their families, offering new hope for better outcomes without the risks of traditional treatments.

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This study looked at how high blood pressure affects the effectiveness of different treatments for stroke patients whose stroke causes are unknown (cryptogenic stroke). Researchers analyzed data from 945 patients and found that 37% had high blood pressure with risky features. They discovered that for patients without those high-risk features, the blood thinner apixaban was much better at preventing further strokes compared to aspirin, reducing the risk by about 57%. However, in patients with high-risk hypertension, there was no significant benefit from apixaban over aspirin. Who this helps: This information is valuable for doctors treating stroke patients, as it helps them choose the best treatment based on a patient's blood pressure condition.

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This study explored how the tiny blood vessels in the choroid of the eye can indicate problems in blood circulation in critically ill patients. Out of 14 patients in the intensive care unit, 12 were able to have imaging done successfully, and the researchers found that certain eye measurements were linked to their overall health; for instance, a thicker choroid was related to poorer health scores and higher fluid levels. This matters because it shows that eye imaging could help doctors better understand and monitor circulation issues in other vital organs. Who this helps: This helps doctors in intensive care units manage and treat critically ill patients.

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This study looked at how being tested for the BRCA1/2 gene affects young women's ability to have children, their intimate relationships, and their sexual health. It found that women who tested positive for a BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant were more likely to have children (49% of them had kids, compared to 40.5% of those who tested negative) and tended to have more children overall. Understanding these impacts is important because it helps guide care and support for women who undergo genetic testing. Who this helps: This helps women who are considering or have undergone BRCA1/2 genetic testing.

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This study looked at how many adults with cerebral palsy experience pain and what factors influence it. Researchers found that between 24% and 89% of these adults report having pain, which is higher than the rates found in adults without cerebral palsy. They discovered that factors like communication skills, gender, and age can affect pain levels, but typical treatments like medications and surgery don’t help; however, staying active and participating in sports can reduce pain. Who this helps: Patients with cerebral palsy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how digital education is used to train health care professionals, especially after the rise of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers reviewed nearly 9,000 papers and narrowed it down to 217 studies that explored what is known and what gaps exist. They identified 63 key questions for future research, with the top five priorities focusing on how to measure learning transfer to real-world practice, optimize the use of technology in education, and establish standards for outcomes in digital health education. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, educators, and training institutions in the health care field.

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This study looked at how healthcare workers view electronic health record (EHR) alerts designed to prevent workplace violence in hospitals. Out of 28 healthcare professionals from 20 hospitals, 67% felt these alerts do not actually help prevent violence, while 50% reported that the alerts sometimes led to changes in patient care and 21% saw negative patient outcomes because of them. This matters because inconsistent practices and potential biases in how alerts are used could risk both patient safety and equity in care. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and hospital administrators.

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This study looked at how much Americans would be willing to pay for universal access to a new Alzheimer's treatment that can slow disease progression by 30%. On average, people were willing to pay about $252 to $260 each year, which translates to a total of about $33.7 billion to $51.4 billion nationwide for this treatment. Importantly, providing information about how Alzheimer's affects lower-income groups and racial minorities did not change how much people valued the treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Alzheimer's disease and their families by highlighting the strong support for treatment access.

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This study looked at how the metaverse, a virtual environment, is being used in surgery. Researchers reviewed 97 articles but found 15 relevant studies, mostly focused on expert opinions, particularly in urology. They discovered that the metaverse is mainly applied in education (53%), training (80%), surgeries (67%), and overall surgical care (53%), highlighting the need for careful integration and more evidence on its effectiveness. Who this helps: This benefits surgeons, medical educators, and ultimately patients.

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This study looked at how combining in-person and virtual visits (called hybrid care) in pharmacist-led diabetes clinics affected blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes. It found that after introducing virtual visits, patients had an average drop in their blood sugar levels (measured by hemoglobin A1c) of -1.7 compared to -1.5 before the change, and there were fewer missed appointments with hybrid care (7.1% vs. 5.2%). This is important because it shows that using video appointments can keep diabetes management effective, even when in-person visits are possible again. Who this helps: Patients with type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at the effects of a smoke-free housing policy implemented in New York City's public housing on health outcomes for older adults aged 50 and over. The researchers found that after the policy was introduced, hospitalizations for heart attacks decreased by 0.26 cases per 1,000 people, and strokes decreased by 0.28 cases per 1,000 people among residents in public housing compared to similar areas without the policy. These results show that smoke-free housing can lead to fewer hospital visits related to serious heart and stroke conditions, making it an important step in improving health for vulnerable populations. Who this helps: This helps older adults living in public housing, particularly those at risk of heart and stroke-related health issues.

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This study focused on how pregnant women in Australia manage their asthma and their experiences with asthma care. Out of 24 women interviewed, many did not realize how serious their asthma could be, with one woman noting, "If I'm not getting oxygen, neither is my baby." The findings underline the need for better education and consistent asthma treatment during pregnancy to ensure mothers and their babies stay healthy. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with asthma and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how doing different types of tasks while trying to track a moving object affects our eye movements. Researchers found that when participants had to perform a difficult mental math task while listening to numbers, their eye tracking became less stable, especially if the task was hard. However, when the task involved seeing the numbers instead, their tracking improved, showing that visual tasks help more than auditory ones in this scenario. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with neurological conditions that affect movement control, like Parkinson's disease or stroke.

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This study looked at how pre-eclampsia and eclampsia affect the brain during pregnancy by examining blood-brain barrier damage and inflammation. It found that women with eclampsia had significantly higher levels of harmful substances in their cerebrospinal fluid, including a 2.7-fold increase in a protein called claudin-5 and a 20.7-fold increase in Interleukin-6, indicating severe inflammation. These findings are important as they shed light on the brain complications that can lead to seizures and other serious outcomes for mothers with these conditions. Who this helps: This research benefits pregnant women at risk of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study developed a new gene panel sequencing method called smart nonuniformity sequencing to effectively detect genetic variations linked to diseases. Researchers tested this method on 150 blood samples and found that it could reliably identify 14 important variants related to a condition called clonal hematopoiesis, as well as all known genetic variants in the samples. The sequencing was able to distinguish between different levels of genetic variations using just one process, which is important for accurate diagnoses and treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with blood-related conditions and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well booster vaccines for COVID-19 work in patients with two blood cancers: multiple myeloma and Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Initially, only 47% of multiple myeloma patients and 25% of Waldenström patients developed a strong immune response after their first vaccine series. However, after receiving boosters, this improved significantly—84% of the myeloma patients and 89% of the Waldenström patients showed a strong immune response. This is important because it suggests that booster shots can greatly enhance protection against COVID-19 in these vulnerable groups. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple myeloma and Waldenström macroglobulinemia.

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This research looked at how spending time in nature might help people with heart and metabolic diseases, like high blood pressure and diabetes, which affect around 18 million people each year. After reviewing 22 studies, the researchers found that nature-based activities, like walking in forests, can lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This is important because it suggests that simple changes, like getting outside, can significantly improve heart health for many people. Who this helps: Patients with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

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This study looked at how the drug elinzanetant affects driving performance the morning after being taken at bedtime in healthy women aged 40 to 65. The results showed that women taking elinzanetant maintained good control in their lane while driving, with no negative effects on their driving ability compared to a placebo. Specifically, their ability to stay in the lane was well within safe limits, indicating that the drug does not impair driving the next day, even after taking a higher dose. Who this helps: This benefits women experiencing menopausal symptoms who might use elinzanetant.

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This study focused on a new tool called MR1Nb1, designed to inhibit the activation of MR1-restricted T cells, which play a role in fighting infections and tumors. Researchers created a nanobody that binds very tightly to MR1 (with an affinity of 1.6 nM) and found that it effectively blocks the activation of MAIT cells, a type of immune cell, when exposed to infected cells. This discovery is important because it advances our understanding of MR1's function and could lead to new approaches for treating infections and cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with infections or tumors by potentially improving immunotherapy treatments.

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This study looked at how to better combine emergency medical services (EMS) with palliative care in South Africa to improve healthcare for patients with serious illnesses. Experts identified key steps to achieve this integration, including allowing EMS to give prescribed medications and training EMS staff in palliative care. The aim is to ensure that patients receive more complete and compassionate care during emergencies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with serious illnesses and their families.

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This study looked at how certain ruthenium-based catalysts help convert fatty esters, like methyl decanoate, into alcohols efficiently. The researchers found that these catalysts work extremely well, even at very low amounts, achieving up to 100,000 times the substrate's weight in reactions at mild temperatures and pressures. This process is important because it could make the production of biofuels and other chemicals more efficient and cost-effective. Who this helps: This helps chemists and researchers in the field of renewable energy and sustainable chemistry.

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This study focused on KMT2A fusions, which are important genetic changes found in 5% to 10% of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and are linked to worse outcomes. The researchers developed a new, clear method to classify these fusions, testing 100 cases and finding that 97 of them occurred in a key area of the gene. The results showed that 9 cases changed classification based on the new system, which helps standardize how these fusions are identified and reported across labs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with AML and doctors who treat them by improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.

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This study looks at a new method called Positive Health Coaching (PHC), which emphasizes not just avoiding illness, but achieving overall health in body, mind, and social life. Researchers found that PHC combines ideas from various fields, like psychology and lifestyle medicine, to help people approach their health more positively and comprehensively. This matters because it aligns with global health goals and addresses the increase in chronic diseases, helping people live healthier lives. Who this helps: This benefits patients who want a more holistic approach to their health and well-being.

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This study looked at how different types of tiny worms (entomopathogenic nematodes) can help control the goat biting louse, which can cause skin problems and lower productivity in goats. The researchers tested five worm species and found that two of them, S. riobrave and S. carpocapsae, were particularly effective at killing the lice, with the least lice surviving after 48 hours when exposed to these worms. This matters because it offers a safer, environmentally friendly alternative to chemical insecticides that can lead to resistance and other issues. Who this helps: This helps goat farmers and their livestock by providing effective pest control options.

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This study looked at how long-term care homes in Canada adapted their care practices during the COVID-19 pandemic to better support their residents. Researchers surveyed these care homes and found that many focused on providing healthy meals, exercise, music and art programs, and social activities for residents. Most of the care models were seen as effective, and many facilities plan to continue using them, though they expressed a need for more funding and support to maintain these practices. Who this helps: This benefits residents in long-term care homes and their families.

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This study looked at different types of nature-based interventions (NBIs), like gardening, forest therapy, and outdoor exercise, to understand their effects on mental and physical health. Researchers reviewed 61 articles and found 13 different categories of NBIs. They also identified 11 important factors, such as age and personal motivation, that can affect how well these interventions work. This matters because it shows healthcare professionals have many cost-effective options to improve well-being through nature. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how adults with cerebral palsy (CP) in the UK and Ireland experience stigma and discrimination. Out of 86 participants, 87.5% reported facing stigma mainly from the public, peers, and coworkers. The research highlighted issues like rigid stereotypes, accessibility challenges, and negative emotional impacts stemming from a lack of understanding about CP. Addressing these issues is important to improve the quality of life for those affected. Who this helps: This helps adults with cerebral palsy and those involved in their care.

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This study focused on a specific enzyme called malic enzyme 2 (ME2) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a type of breast cancer known for its aggressive nature. Researchers found that when ME2 was inhibited, tumor growth slowed down significantly in mice, leading to longer survival for the animals. By altering how cancer cells metabolize nutrients, this research highlights the potential for targeting ME2 to improve treatment for patients with TNBC. Who this helps: This helps patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

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This study looked at how Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) can enhance their research capabilities to better understand diseases and improve treatments. The findings highlight that while these centers are committed and well-led, they often struggle with limited funding and resources for research. Building a robust research infrastructure at these centers is essential for gathering valuable data, which can lead to more precise and personalized medical care. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers in communities served by FQHCs.

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This study looked at why children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) undergo a type of surgery called thoracotomy, which is done to address lung problems. Researchers found that from 2018 to 2022, 172 children had this surgery, primarily due to infectious diseases like tuberculosis (55%) and congenital issues (35%). These findings highlight the ongoing challenges in LMICs, where infectious diseases remain a significant cause of surgery, unlike in wealthier countries where cancer is more common. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers working with children in LMICs who need surgery for lung conditions.

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This study focused on creating a system that keeps tumors taken from patients alive in the lab for up to 48 hours, which helps researchers better understand how tumors interact with different drugs. Using a simple setup that mimics the conditions inside the body, the researchers found they could reliably preserve the tumor environment and gather valuable data about how these tumors respond to treatments. This work matters because it paves the way for more accurate cancer research and personalized medicine by allowing scientists to explore the effects of various drugs on real patient tumors. Who this helps: Patients and cancer researchers.

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This study looked at how 22 graduates of positive psychology programs applied what they learned about wellbeing in their everyday lives to maintain their happiness over time. Instead of relying solely on structured techniques to boost their mood, they developed a new approach called the Meliotropic Wellbeing Mindset, which emphasizes living intentionally, accepting oneself, and being aware of one's surroundings. The findings show that focusing on this mindset leads to more sustainable wellbeing than just using specific positive psychology exercises, underscoring the importance of adapting one's mindset to enhance life quality. Who this helps: This benefits individuals seeking to improve their overall wellbeing and mental health.

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This study examined how medical students at the University of Colorado experienced a shared decision-making (SDM) curriculum between 2022 and 2024. Researchers analyzed the students' written reflections and found four main themes: effective communication, respect for patient choices, empathy, and the development of their professional identities. Overall, the findings highlight that understanding the patient perspective can improve students' skills in working collaboratively with patients, which is crucial for good healthcare. Who this helps: This helps medical students and future doctors improve their patient care skills.

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This study looked at how family medicine clerkship directors perceive the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in assessing medical students. Out of 173 directors surveyed, 52.6% responded, and those who had used AI were more positive about its role in student assessments, showing a significant increase in favorable attitudes (a score increase of 2.601). This is important because it suggests that using AI could improve how medical students are evaluated, potentially leading to better training outcomes. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators by improving assessments in medical training programs.

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This study explored whether a new way of testing psychological therapies can help people with schizophrenia make better treatment decisions. Researchers ran three different interventions focusing on self-stigma, low self-esteem, and a thinking bias called "jumping to conclusions" with 57 participants. They found positive improvements in understanding and reasoning about treatment decisions for those receiving therapy, especially for targeting low self-esteem (with a notable effect size of 0.74). Who this helps: Patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders who struggle with treatment decision-making.

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This study looked at how patients with Chronic Ankle Instability feel mentally, physically, and in terms of pain before and after Brostrom-Gould (BG) surgery. Out of 40 patients, those who had surgery reported a significant increase in their physical function and a decrease in pain, with improvements starting as early as 6 weeks after surgery. The results help set realistic expectations for patients about their recovery and overall wellbeing after surgery. Who this helps: Patients recovering from ankle surgery.

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Following the detection of Cache Valley virus in an aborted lamb in Arkansas in 2023, a One Health investigation was conducted to understand the risk this mosquito-borne virus posed to both animals and people in the region. Cache Valley virus can cause severe neurological disease in humans and reproductive failure in sheep and goats, making it a dual threat to agriculture and public health. The investigation demonstrates how coordinated animal and human surveillance can detect emerging viral threats early.