JERRY CASE CROOKS, M.D.

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This study looked at how the Community Asthma Program affected asthma problems in Navajo children during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that, even with the pandemic causing many challenges, asthma flare-ups requiring emergency care or hospitalization did increase by 53% once restrictions began to ease, but overall awareness and care for asthma improved within the community. The results show that community education and support can make a difference in managing asthma, even in tough times. Who this helps: This benefits Navajo families dealing with childhood asthma.

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This study looked at how people living with HIV in the UK feel about palliative and end-of-life care. Out of 90 participants, most knew about palliative care, but many incorrectly thought it was only for the very end of life. Over a quarter felt their HIV status sometimes negatively affected their care experiences, and they prioritized a calm environment, pain relief, and emotional support in these situations. Who this helps: This research helps patients living with HIV and the healthcare professionals who care for them.

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This study looked at the side effects of corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comparing official reports with feedback from patients. Researchers found that a significant number of side effects were reported—about 3.0% of patients in one database and 26.6% in another had issues linked to corticosteroids. Patients often recalled different side effects, such as weight gain and mood changes, which impacted their quality of life, more so than the official data reported. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with IBD by highlighting their experiences with medication side effects.

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This study focused on improving how tablets are made in the drug industry by using special measurements to better understand the granulation process, which is a step that helps create the powder used for tablets. They found that their new model could predict the strength of tablets produced by different machines with a very high accuracy (an R value of 0.9535). This is important because it could lead to more consistent and better-quality tablets in large-scale production. Who this helps: Patients and doctors who rely on high-quality medications.

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This study looked at how to improve access to palliative care for people experiencing homelessness in the UK, who often face serious health issues and die young. Researchers created a network that involved 268 participants over 12 months, where 78% reported a better understanding of the challenges faced by homeless individuals, and 85% felt more connected to others in the field. The findings emphasize the need for collaboration and input from people with lived experience of homelessness in palliative care research, ultimately leading to better support for this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing homelessness and healthcare professionals working with them.

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This study looked at how an artificial intelligence (AI) tool called FFR-CT can improve care for patients with chest pain by helping doctors decide whether further testing is needed. Researchers found that using FFR-CT did not increase the risk of death and actually reduced the number of invasive tests; for example, only 16% of patients needed invasive coronary angiograms compared to 14.9% without the AI tool. This is important because it simplifies the patient experience and saves healthcare resources. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing chest pain and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at the idea of death cafés, which are informal gatherings where people discuss death and dying, and how they might help individuals experiencing homelessness (PEH). Researchers found that there is a significant need for spaces like this, as PEH often lack access to support around death and grieving; however, careful planning is required due to the potential risks involved in facilitating such discussions. The findings show that when done properly, death cafés could provide important emotional support for PEH who are dealing with issues of mortality. Who this helps: This benefits people experiencing homelessness and the professionals who support them.

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This study looked at how effective different advance care planning methods are for adults with serious illnesses and their families. Researchers analyzed 39 reviews and found that 15 of them showed significant reductions in hospital visits when patients had a plan in place that matched their wishes. Additionally, 14 reviews indicated more patients received care that aligned with their goals, and 12 showed more patients documented their preferences for treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with serious illnesses and their families by ensuring their preferences for medical care are honored.

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This study focused on understanding how to better design and deliver palliative and end-of-life care for people living with HIV, particularly as they live longer and face additional health issues. Researchers found that actively involving individuals with HIV in the research process helps to ensure that care meets their specific needs and preferences. This is crucial as more people with HIV require such supportive services, making it essential for treatment to reflect their voices. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV and healthcare providers working to support them.

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This study focused on how to improve end-of-life care for people experiencing homelessness by involving them in the research process. Researchers found that collaborating directly with those who have lived experience led to better insights, which can help create more effective care systems. By using recommendations called TIFFIN, the team discovered that fostering good relationships and equal participation among everyone involved was crucial for success. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing homelessness and the healthcare providers who serve them.

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This study focused on how involving a group of people who have experienced serious illness or loss improved research on palliative and end-of-life care priorities. It found that there were 66 positive impacts from this group, including better project design and clearer communication, which ultimately enhanced the study's quality. This matters because it ensures that the needs and experiences of those facing serious health challenges are better represented in research, leading to improved care. Who this helps: This benefits patients and their families facing serious illnesses.

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This study looked at using a treatment called upfront stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for patients with nonfunctioning pituitary tumors that couldn't be removed through surgery. Researchers tracked outcomes for 132 patients over several years, finding that the treatment was highly effective, with a 100% success rate in controlling tumors after 3 years, which dropped slightly to 92.4% after 8 years. While some patients experienced new complications, such as hormone deficiencies, the overall safety of the treatment was good, and improvements in vision were noted in a third of those who had vision issues before treatment. Who this helps: This research helps patients with nonfunctioning pituitary tumors that are not candidates for surgery.

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This study looked at programs in the UK that provide end-of-life care to people experiencing homelessness. Out of 162 professionals surveyed, 62% were involved in initiatives that aimed to improve care for these individuals. The success of these programs included better engagement with services and fulfilling patients' end-of-life wishes, but challenges such as stigma and lack of funding were also identified. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing homelessness and the professionals who care for them.

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This research focused on how to better include people who have experienced homelessness in studies about palliative and end-of-life care. The researchers spoke with 27 people—16 professionals who work with homeless populations and 11 individuals who have lived experience of homelessness. They identified four key ideas for involving these individuals in research: the complex nature of homelessness, the need for proper representation, the importance of recognizing lived experience as a valuable asset, and effective methods for engaging these individuals in the research process. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing homelessness, researchers, and healthcare providers.

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This study investigated the costs of different radiation treatments for brain metastases (BMs) in cancer patients using real health insurance data. The analysis of 1,048 patients showed that the total treatment costs amounted to nearly $10.7 million, with the most expensive type of radiation, hippocampal avoidance intensity modulated radiation therapy, costing about $47,748 per patient. Understanding these costs is important for finding the best treatment options that balance effectiveness and expenses. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare decision-makers involved in cancer treatment planning.

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This study looked at skin problems that occur in over half of patients receiving checkpoint inhibitors, a type of cancer treatment. Researchers analyzed skin samples and blood from 200 patients, finding eight types of skin reactions, with the most common being itching (26%) and rashes (21%). They discovered specific immune response patterns tied to these reactions, revealing that targeted treatments could help improve patient care for those experiencing these skin issues. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients undergoing treatment with checkpoint inhibitors by identifying possible targeted therapies for skin reactions.

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This study looked at how training teachers to support students who have lost a parent or sibling can make a difference. Researchers found that after the training, teachers felt their confidence and knowledge improved significantly, with notable positive changes in their ability to assist bereaved children. This is important because supporting grieving students can help prevent future social, emotional, and school issues. Who this helps: This helps teachers and bereaved students in Northern Ireland.

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This study focused on creating guidelines, called the TIFFIN recommendations, for involving people who have experienced homelessness in research about palliative and end-of-life care. Researchers spoke with 27 experts and individuals with lived experience and identified six key areas that highlight the importance of being transparent, building relationships, recognizing contributions, and understanding trauma in the research process. These recommendations are vital because they aim to improve the inclusion of homeless individuals in important healthcare studies, addressing their high rates of serious health issues and low access to necessary care. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing homelessness, healthcare providers, and researchers.

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This study focused on improving how tablets are made using a method called high shear wet granulation (HSWG). Researchers found that measuring the force in the granulation process is more effective than measuring torque for predicting tablet properties, particularly their strength. This means they can make better tablets more efficiently by ensuring machines operate at optimal settings, leading to less waste during production. Who this helps: This helps tablet manufacturers and ultimately patients by producing more reliable medications.

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This study looked at how dust storms affect hospital visits for breathing and heart problems in parts of the southwestern United States from 2005 to 2016. Researchers found that on days when dust storms occurred, emergency room visits for respiratory issues increased by 3.7% to 5.0% in the days following the storm, while changes in heart-related visits were not significant. This research highlights the health risks that dust storms pose, particularly for people with respiratory problems. Who this helps: This helps patients with respiratory conditions, especially those living in areas affected by dust storms.

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This study looked at how adults in the UK have trouble dealing with private businesses after losing a loved one. It found that 61% faced challenges with tasks like paperwork and communication, which can be even harder when they're grieving. The research highlights the need for businesses to be more considerate and supportive during this difficult time, suggesting that changes should be made to improve the experience for those who are grieving. Who this helps: This helps bereaved individuals and their families.

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This research studied patients in the UK with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to see how well their condition was being managed. The findings revealed that about 52% of patients with Crohn's disease and 45% of those with ulcerative colitis had poorly controlled disease, mainly due to lower quality of life. Poor disease control not only worsens patients' fatigue and disability but also significantly increases healthcare costs and lost work productivity. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from IBD, as well as their doctors and caregivers.

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This study looked at how to create better mental health services for children and young people dealing with issues like anxiety and depression. Researchers reviewed existing services and found that only four models were effective: collaborative care, outreach approaches, brief intervention services, and a specific organizational framework. They identified key features of high-quality services, such as quick access to support and individualized care, but noted that despite years of research, many current services in England and Wales do not meet these standards. Who this helps: This helps children and young people struggling with mental health issues, as well as the professionals who provide support to them.

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This study looked at how effective stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is in treating nonfunctioning pituitary tumors and what new hormone deficiencies might develop afterward. Out of 869 patients, 95.5% had their tumors controlled after 5 years, but there was a 15.3% chance of developing new hormone deficiencies, like low cortisol or thyroid levels, after 10 years. This is important because it shows that while SRS can successfully reduce tumors, it also carries a risk of new health problems that need to be monitored. Who this helps: This information is useful for patients with pituitary tumors, as well as their doctors, to make informed treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how effective stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is for treating recurring or leftover nonfunctioning pituitary tumors, and the health issues that can arise afterward. The researchers found that 93% of patients controlled their tumors after 5 years, with this rate dropping to 69% after 15 years. Additionally, 83% of patients preserved their pituitary function after 5 years, but this decreased to 71% after 15 years, showing that while SRS is generally effective, some patients may develop hormonal problems over time. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with pituitary tumors and their doctors by providing important insights into treatment outcomes and potential side effects.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of a treatment called stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for patients with nonfunctioning pituitary tumors who had already undergone at least two surgeries. The findings showed that SRS successfully controlled the tumor in 93.3% of cases five years after treatment and 86.7% after ten years, with a relatively low risk of developing new hormone deficiencies (10.1% overall) after SRS. This is important because it suggests that SRS can be a safer and more effective option than undergoing yet another surgery for these patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with nonfunctioning pituitary tumors who have already had multiple surgeries.

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Researchers created a new tool called AdPhosphatase that helps remove phosphate groups from specific proteins, which is important because the addition or removal of these groups can affect how proteins function in cells. They successfully used this tool to selectively dephosphorylate two proteins, FAM83D and ULK1, with high precision. This development is important because it could lead to new drug therapies for diseases where protein function is disrupted by improper phosphorylation. Who this helps: This helps patients with diseases related to protein function, like cancer or neurodegenerative disorders.

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This study looked at whether using environmental data from open-source sources might be a better way to predict schistosomiasis infections in households than traditional snail surveys, which are labor-intensive. The researchers found that their environmental model predicted infections with an accuracy of 89%, while the snail model only achieved 86%. This matters because using environmental data could lead to more efficient and accurate monitoring of schistosomiasis, helping to identify and target areas for prevention efforts more effectively. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and researchers working to eliminate schistosomiasis.

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This study looked at a new way to predict air pollution levels, specifically fine particulate matter (PM), in cities using data from multiple sensor networks. By combining information from different sources, researchers found that their prediction method was more effective, improving accuracy compared to traditional models. They tested this approach using data from Denver, Colorado, and demonstrated it could better forecast pollution levels, which matters because accurate predictions can help people avoid unhealthy air quality. Who this helps: This helps patients with respiratory issues, city planners, and environmental health officials.

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This study looked at how advance care planning (ACP) is recorded in medical files for people with serious illnesses from different ethnic backgrounds. It found that White patients had a higher rate of documented ACP in their care records, with 12 out of 15 studies showing this difference, while informal discussions about end-of-life care were similar across all groups. The reasons behind these disparities include lack of awareness, financial issues, religious beliefs, and a need for more culturally sensitive communication from healthcare providers. Who this helps: This research helps patients and doctors by highlighting the importance of culturally aware healthcare practices.

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This study looked at how young people feel about participating in mental health research and what they gain from it. Thirteen young people, aged 13-24, shared their experiences, revealing four key benefits: making a real impact, feeling part of a supportive community, learning new things, and having more opportunities. This is important because it shows that involving young people in research not only helps the studies but also empowers them personally. Who this helps: This benefits young patients and the researchers who work with them.

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This research looked at how to effectively involve people who have experienced homelessness, incarceration, substance use disorders, or sex work in studies related to palliative and end-of-life care. It found that while there are benefits to including these voices—like gaining deeper insights and mutual learning—there are also challenges such as stigma, inadequate compensation, and emotional issues that need addressing. Importantly, there are no clear guidelines on best practices for involving these groups in research, highlighting a need for further investigation and policy development. Who this helps: Patients with terminal illnesses, especially those from marginalized backgrounds.

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This study examined what children, young people, parents, and service providers think make mental health services effective and easy to access. Researchers found four key factors that everyone agreed on: services should be open for self-referral, build strong relationships between practitioners and patients, be personalized to individual needs, and help develop self-care skills for better mental health management. These insights are crucial because they highlight specific areas that could improve mental health support for young people, who currently face significant barriers to accessing help. Who this helps: This helps children and young people experiencing mental health issues and their families.

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This study looked at how people from South Asian communities in Leeds and Bradford experience and manage pain when dealing with advanced disease or serious illness. Researchers talked with 15 patients and family caregivers and found that key issues included the need for better communication with healthcare providers, concerns about pain medication, and the impact of cultural values on pain treatment. Improving awareness of these issues and enhancing communication can lead to better care and pain management for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families from South Asian communities, as well as doctors and healthcare providers.

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This study compares two methods for treating scar-related atrial tachycardia (s-AT) using a technique called catheter ablation. Researchers are looking at whether targeting narrower areas for ablation, guided by a method called ripple mapping, leads to better outcomes than traditional methods. Involving 200 patients, the trial will measure how often arrhythmias return after these procedures over a year, aiming to see if the newer technique results in less arrhythmia recurrence. Who this helps: This benefits patients with scar-related atrial tachycardia seeking effective treatment options.

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This study looked at different ways to measure dust storms in the U.S. and compared them to a highly accurate dust detection method. Researchers found that the data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) was the most reliable, showing strong links to actual dust storm occurrences, particularly through measurements of dust particle size and concentration. Understanding these metrics is important because as dust storms become more common, they can negatively impact health, and better data will help researchers study these effects more accurately. Who this helps: This benefits public health researchers, policymakers, and communities affected by dust storms.

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This study looked at how patients with brain tumors caused by testicular cancer were treated in the U.S. from 2010 to 2015. It found that most patients received whole brain radiation therapy, but those who had stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) lived longer, with a 5-year survival rate being notably higher for this group. This is important because it shows that choosing SRS can lead to better outcomes for these patients. Who this helps: Patients with testicular cancer and brain metastases.

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This study looked at how a specific genetic marker (called E69) and exposure to beryllium dust affect the risk of developing beryllium sensitization (BeS) and chronic beryllium disease (CBD) in workers who were exposed. Researchers found that workers without the E69 marker were less likely to develop these conditions, and every additional E69 marker increased the likelihood of CBD and BeS. Notably, higher exposure to beryllium decreased the odds of BeS, but less so for CBD, suggesting that while reducing exposure may not stop BeS, it could lower the risk of CBD and its serious health effects, particularly for those with the E69 marker. Who this helps: This helps workers exposed to beryllium, especially those with the E69 genetic marker.

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This study looked at how people from different racial and ethnic backgrounds are treated when they are in pain due to advanced diseases, focusing mainly on countries with high living standards. The researchers found that while many patients had similar concerns about pain medications—like worries about addiction and side effects—there wasn’t enough strong evidence to conclude whether these patients actually received different amounts of pain relief based on their ethnicity. Overall, 56% of the studies showed no significant differences in pain treatment among ethnic groups, but there are important communication issues that need addressing to provide better care. Who this helps: This helps patients from diverse ethnic backgrounds who are suffering from advanced diseases.

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This study explored how the location of a target protein inside a cell affects the ability of a special drug called PROTAC to degrade that protein. Researchers found that proteins placed in different parts of the cell—like the nucleus or mitochondria—were broken down at different rates when treated with PROTACs. For instance, proteins in the nucleus were degraded more effectively than those in the cytoplasm, showing that where a protein is located plays a crucial role in how well PROTACs work. Who this helps: This helps patients with diseases where targeted protein degradation could be a potential treatment.

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This study examined the impact of the US Department of Agriculture's Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) on air quality, specifically looking at fine particulate matter (PM) levels from 2001 to 2016. The researchers found that CRP significantly reduced PM concentrations, leading to projections of 1,353 to 3,022 fewer deaths in 2008, with economic benefits estimated between $9.5 billion and $21.2 billion due to avoided mortality. This matters because it shows that environmental programs like the CRP not only promote better air quality but also save lives and reduce healthcare costs. Who this helps: Patients, especially those with respiratory conditions, benefit from improved air quality.

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This study focused on improving asthma care for Navajo children, who often face serious asthma challenges. A program called the Community Asthma Program (CAP) was developed after working with community members and will be tested over six years in three areas: Tuba City, Chinle, and Fort Defiance, Arizona. The main goal is to reduce severe asthma cases, measured through hospital visits and treatments, to see how well the program works in supporting these children. Who this helps: This benefits Navajo children and their families dealing with asthma.

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This study looked at how oil and natural gas extraction activities in Northeastern Colorado might affect heart health. Researchers found that people living near high-intensity oil and gas operations had a 6% higher augmentation index, which indicates stiffer arteries, and differing blood pressure measures compared to those living near less intensive operations. For some participants not taking medications, high exposure was linked to a 6 mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure, which could have serious health implications. Who this helps: This research helps patients living near oil and gas activities who may be at increased risk for cardiovascular issues.

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This study looked at how being exposed to fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke affects heart and lung health in older adults. Researchers found that during wildfire smoke days, hospitalizations for respiratory issues increased by 6.9%, compared to a smaller 1.34% increase on non-smoke days, while overall hospitalizations for heart and lung problems were elevated on both types of days—1.08% on smoke days and 0.67% on non-smoke days. This matters because it highlights the serious health risks from air pollution, especially for older people, and suggests that precautions should be taken during wildfire events. Who this helps: Older adults and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how increasing corn production affects groundwater quality, specifically focusing on nitrate contamination from nitrogen fertilizers. The researchers found that between 2002 and 2022, areas at risk for high nitrate levels in groundwater could increase by 56% to 79%, mainly due to higher fertilizer use on irrigated corn fields and surrounding animal feeding operations. This matters because high nitrate levels in drinking water can harm human health and the environment. Who this helps: This helps communities, farmers, and environmental regulators who want to monitor and improve groundwater quality.

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This study looked at how different types of substances called CpG can affect a disease in mice that is similar to multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers found that a specific type called CpG type A helped reduce the severity of the disease, decreasing symptoms significantly from an average score of about 23 to about 12, and delayed the start of neurological issues while also protecting the brain's protective covering. This is important because it suggests a new way to encourage the immune system to be less harmful in diseases like MS. Who this helps: Patients with multiple sclerosis and similar conditions.

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This study explored how T cells, which are crucial for the immune system, recognize foreign invaders using proteins known as MHC. Researchers found that an important part of the T cell receptor, specifically the CDR3α region, influences how well T cells are selected based on the MHC they encounter. In fact, changes in this region significantly affect T cell responses to different MHC types. This research is important because it enhances our understanding of how T cells are prepared to react to different pathogens, which can lead to improved treatments for various diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients by potentially improving immune therapies and vaccines.

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This study looked at how exposure to ozone, a common air pollutant, affects patients with coronary artery disease. Researchers found that even low levels of ozone can lead to significant changes in inflammation and blood vessel function, with specific increases like a 40.5% rise in a protein that prevents blood clot breakdown and a 15.9% increase in an inflammation marker called interleukin-6. These findings are important because they show that ozone exposure can worsen heart health, even at levels considered safe by environmental standards. Who this helps: This helps patients with coronary artery disease by highlighting the risks of air pollution on their health.