Children's Mercy Research Institute

@research.childrensmercy.org

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Children's Mercy is dedicated to becoming a leader in pediatric translational research. 🧬🗣️🧠🩻🩺🏙️ childrensmercy.org/research

This graphic is on a gold background. On the right are photos of 6 people who are celebrating 20 years or more at Children's Mercy. Two are celebrating 20 years, two are celebrating 25 years, one is celebrating 40 years, and the last is celebrating 45 years. On the left are lists, broken up by 5, 10, and 15 years. The lists include the names and departments of those with the corresponding anniversaries. There are 36 names listed.

A photo of Dr. Sheng Xia on a white background. Dr. Xia has black short hair and is wearing glasses. In this photo he is wearing a blue denim, button-up shirt.

Dr. Kaela Varberg (right) stands next to another woman in a conference room. Dr. Varberg holds an award. Behind them is a screen with the photos of 4 people on it and a title that says "U.S. DOHaD Society Achievement Awards".

This graphic is on a blue colored background. On the right is a photo of Sommer Rose, MS, Division of Child Adversity and Resilience. On the left is text that explains who they received funding from and what the funding supports: Grant from Home State Health. Supports Children's Mercy's Safe Sleep, Safe Babies program.

5 people take a selfie in front of their digital poster, shown on a screen.

This graphic is on a blue background. A photo of Terrie Flatt, DO, MA, Hematology/Oncology/BMT, is on the right. On the left is text that outlines the grant Dr. Flatt received as well as the project the funding is being used on.

A photo of Mallory Moon. She has long brown hair and is wearing a forest green turtleneck. In the background is a blurred scene of greenery and lights.

A group photo of members of the School KIDS research team standing outside. There are 15 people in total and they are standing in 4 rows.

This graphic has a gold background. On the right are photos, names, departments, and years of service for those celebrating 20, 25. On the left is a breakdown of those who are celebrating 5, 10, and 15 years. Those lists include the person's name and their department.

This graphic is on a blue background. Text at the top says "Children's Mercy Patient Care Services Research Grants 2025". Below it are photos of the 4 recipients of the grants, as well as their names, and the titles of their projects: Megan Blaufuss, OTR/L, MS, CPAM. Study: “ViBandz Feasibility Study in the Neurological Pediatric Population”. Mellony Mann, PT, DPT, CMTPT. Study: “Effects of Dry Needling on Quadriceps Muscle Strength in Acute Post-Operative Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Quadriceps Autograft in the Pediatric Population". Kendra Maschmeier, MSN, RN, RNC-OB. Study: “Enhancing Patient Experience in Fetal Surgery”. Rachel Whitfield, MSN, APRN, FNP-C. Study: “Efficacy in Treating Chlamydia Trachomatis with Doxycycline in the Adolescent and Young Adult Population”

Luis E. Sainz stands in front of a colorful mural on a wall. He is wearing a black shirt and glasses.

This graphic is on a blue background. A portrait of Jay Vivian, PhD, Clinical Genetics, is on the right. On the left is text that describes what funding he received, who he received it from, and for what study. "R21 grant from National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)". Study: “Assessment of Everolimus as a Therapy for Vici Syndrome in a Preclinical Model"

A photo of Dr. Alexandra Prosser-Dombrowski standing in the lab. She has long brown hair. She is wearing a lab coat with a black shirt underneath.

This graphic with a blue background has photos of 4 people on it. At the top is the title: "Partners Advisory Board grants from the Masonic Cancer Alliance, the outreach network of The University of Kansas Cancer Center". Below each person's name photo is the following information: Brooke Fridley, PhD: “Assessment of the tumor microenvironment and its relationship to clinical outcomes in Ewing Sarcoma.” Tomoo Iwakuma, MD, PhD: “Developing Novel Nanoparticle Based Therapeutics for Pediatric Ewing Sarcoma.” Alejandro Parrales Briones, PhD: “A tailored combination of a reactive oxygen species inducer and an ATM inhibitor complements p53 deficiency, resulting in p53 synthetic lethality.” Atul Ranjan, PhD: “Increased sensitivity to NAMPT inhibition is a novel vulnerability imposed by MDM4.”

A girl in a wheelchair, wearing a tiara, sits next to a table with a microscrope on it. A woman in a lab coat leans down, talking to her.

A woman stands on stage at a lectern, speaking. People sit in the crowd. On the large screen behind her is a slide that says "Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura".

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery (ENT) whose research focus is the Comprehensive Hearing and Otology Program had the following response: "We are helping bridge the gap in demographic disparities for kids with hearing loss, and moving forward in the administration of gene therapies to restore biologic hearing! Ultimately, we hope to facilitate a more optimal result for children in our region."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Laroche Research Team with the Center for Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition had the following response: "Our healthy lifestyle and nutrition research helps kids build healthy habits. We investigate ways to make eating well and staying active accessible and attainable, paving the way for a life of healthier choices that strengthens kids and their communities."

A man stands in front of people sitting in an auditorium. On the large screen behind him is a slide that says KC DigitalDrive and explains their mission.

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Kulesa Lab and Dahl Lab, out of Developmental and Behavioral Medicine and Division of Otolaryngology, had the following response: "Our two labs are collaborating to use our developmental model to understand the genetics regulating airway development. Our model provides an opportunity to answer questions surrounding pediatric airway disorders."

This graphic has a gold background. On the left are photos, the names, departments, and number of years worked of the 6 people who are celebrating 20 years or more at Children's Mercy. On the left is text breaking down the names and departments of those celebrating 5, 10, and 15 years at our organization.

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Pediatric Brain Cancer Research Team/Yadav Lab in Hematology, Oncology, BMT, had the following response: "Our research focuses on translating preclinical discoveries in Diffuse Midline Gliomas (DMG) into effective therapies, moving promising science from the lab toward clinical impact. By targeting this devastating childhood brain tumor, we aim to improve outcomes and give every child a chance to thrive."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Azadeh Wickham PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, Surgery/Urology and Patient Care Services Research, had the following response: "My research brings patients, caregivers, and community partners together to improve quality of life for children in catheterization programs. By strengthening support systems and increasing treatment adherence, we help kids stay healthier, more confident, and better able to thrive today and into the future."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Vivian Lab who focuses on Clinical Genetics had the following response: "The goals of our research are to better understand rare pediatric neurological genetic disorders. The discoveries in our lab allow us to define the molecular and cellular underpinning of these understudied diseases, from which can identify new targets for therapies. 95% of all rare diseases have no therapy, so our lab's mission is to address this need, and bring a brighter future for children with rare disease."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Walker McKinney, PhD - Assistant Professor at CM and UMKC, Developmental and Behavioral Health, had the following response: "Our team's research helps kids with developmental disabilities and their families learn simple, practical ways to manage big feelings. Our work helps kids and their families feel safer, more confident, and better able to thrive at home, in school, and in their communities."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery (ENT) that's focusing its research on the investigation of pharmacokinetics of nebulized Tranexamic Acid in pediatric patients post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage had the following response: "A nebulized TXA protocol has been adopted for children who return to the hospital with bleeding after a tonsillectomy allowing families to stay overnight with medication treatment and often avoid the need to return to surgery to manage the bleeding. We’ve lowered the need to return to surgery by 65% with this change, saving families the stress and financial burden of surgery."

Two women stand facing another woman. The third woman is in front of her research poster and is explaining it and motioning with her hands to help her explanation.

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Tye Moore, MBA, MS, GME Coordinator, Graduate Medical Education, had the following response: This research supports health equity by training pediatric residents to recognize and address medical mistrust. Trust‑centered care helps ensure all children have an equal chance at healthy futures.

A woman stands at a lectern speaking to the audience. Part of a slide is on the large screen behind her.

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Kulesa Lab, Developmental & Behavioral Health, had this reply: "By understanding the normal development of the autonomic nervous system, we are identifying critical genes controlling neuroblastoma formation, laying the foundation for novel treatment approaches."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Qualitative and Mixed-Methods Research Team in Health Services and Outcomes Research had this response: "Paving a brighter path for kids requires data beyond numbers. The Qualitative and Mixed-methods Research Team studies how the lived experiences of patients, families, providers and communities members can illuminate a healthier future."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Jill Arganbright, MD, Associate Professor of Surgery, Division Director of Otolaryngology, had the following response: "Did you know 22q11.2 deletion syndrome is the second most common genetic syndrome- yet many people have never heard of it? At Children's Mercy, our internationally renowned 22q Center is leading impactful research that is increasing knowledge, improving care, and raising awareness for children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome! We're proud to stand alongside families and help every child with 22q thrive!"

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Our Endocrinology & Diabetes Research Team had the following response: "Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that is increasing in frequency and at a younger age resulting in the necessity of a lifetime of medical management. Our research is focused on preventing type 1 diabetes at an early Stage and preventing the chronic complications through improved management."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Berenice Marrufo, CCRP, Clinical Research Coordinator, Infectious Diseases, had the following response: "The School KIDS research study advances a healthier future for children by deepening our understanding of respiratory viral infections within school communities. Its goal is to learn how respiratory viruses spread in schools, helping inform more effective prevention strategies."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (ENT) team whose research focus is on post tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy pain management had this response: "We've studied ways to reduce opioid pain medicine use after tonsillectomy procedures. We found that not only could we safely eliminate opioid pain medicines for most children, but many of our patients actually experienced improved outcomes."

A photo taken from the back of an auditorium. People sit in the seats. A man stands at the lectern, speaking. The slide on the large screen is titled "MAZ Gene Dosage Changes Cause CAKUT".

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Brett Gilio, MS, Clinical Pharmacology, Toxicology & Therapeutic Innovation replied with: "My research helps to pave the way for precision dosing in children and adolescents who take psychotropic medication."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? The Graduate Medical Education (GME) & ARCC Research Team, who's focus is on expanding resident knowledge & self-efficacy in addressing medical mistrust, had the following response: "Our research shows that structured education can prepare pediatric residents to confront medical mistrust with empathy and skill. Building trust today helps remove barriers to care and paves the way for brighter, healthier futures for children."

This graphic has the following text on it: How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids? Jake Dahl, MD, PhD, MBA, Otolaryngology, responded with: "We are developing multidisciplinary approach to developing non-invasive, quantatative approaches to help determine which children with airway obstruction would benefit from conservative versus surgical treatment."

Dr. Kate Kyler sits on the stage on the left with Dr. Craig Smail sitting next to her on the right. Dr. Kyler smiles while Dr. Smail holds the microphone, talking.

Text on this graphic says: "How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids?". The Cardiac Imaging Research Core responded with "At the heart of every new pediatric heart treatment is a promise of hope. Our Cardiac Imaging Research Core turns that hope into measurable progress—guiding investigators to the right echo metrics and delivering precise, reproducible data that reveal whether a therapy is truly helping a child’s heart heal. By grounding innovation in trusted, expert imaging, we help create a brighter, healthier future for kids everywhere."

This graphic has the following text on it: "How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids?". The General Surgery Research Team had this response: "Our research paves the way for a brighter future by conducting rigorous clinical research that replace guesswork with proven surgical standards and evidence-based protocols, ensuring every child receives the same high quality surgical care. By focusing on advanced minimally invasive techniques and removing socioeconomic barriers, we are building a healthcare system where surgical excellence is both safer for the child and accessible to all."

The text on this graphic says "How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids" Kristin Stegenga, PhD, RN, Nurse Researcher, Hematology/Oncology/BMT, responded with: "My research focuses on symptom assessment and self-management for adolescents and young adults with cancer. Being diagnosed with cancer in this developmental stage of increasing independence is particularly challenging. Helping AYAs assess and manage their symptom experience during this time is key to managing their current situation and also their future."

This graphic has the following text on it: "How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids?". Answer from the Varberg Lab in the Fetal Health Center: "Our research paves the way for a brighter future for kids by uncovering how the placenta supports healthy development before birth. When we understand how placental development goes off-track, we can move toward earlier prediction and prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes for kids."

Two women sit on the floor next to each other. A young child, toddler age, sits between the legs of one of the women and plays with toys.

This graphic has the following text on it: "How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids?". Answer: "Research Accounting helps ensure that funding for studies is tracked carefully and follows all rules and regulations. By making sure resources support important discoveries and services, it helps create better healthcare, education and opportunities for children in the future."

3 people stand in front of a floral backdrop as a woman takes their photo. Each of the people posing is holding a prop connected to research.

The text on this graphic says: "How does your research pave the way for a brighter future for kids?". Laura Ramsey, PhD, Section Chief of Individualized Therapeutics responded with "My research paves the way for a brighter future for kids by examining their DNA to understand how it affects the medications they take and translating this research into clinical care by creating alerts for prescribers in Epic."

This has a photo of 5 adults of various genders and ethnicities sitting in a circle holding coffee and talking. Below it is text that says "Be a voice in shaping kids' health"

This graphic is on a blue background. On the right is a portrait of Todd Bradley, PhD, Genomic Medicine Center. On the left is text that explains who he received funding from and for what project: "R01 grant to Duke University from National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)". Study: “Defining cellular and molecular signatures of inflammation in people with suppressed HIV that promote chronic kidney disease"

Irina Pushel (left) stands at her poster talking to another woman (right) wearing a backpack.

This graphic has a gold background. On the right are photos of 3 women who are celebrating 20, 25, and 30 years at Children's Mercy. On the left are lists of 5, 10, and 15 year anniversaries. Those people are listed by their name and department.

On the right of this graphic is a photo of the tech transfer team, left to right Chris, Caronda, and Aswini. They are standing in front of an autm 50 years of making history sign. On the left is the following text: "Office of Technology Transfer and Commercialization. Core functions: Educating researchers, clinicians and faculty on intellectual property (IP) protection and commercialization strategies. Marketing and licensing inventions to industry and startups. Managing IP compliance with federal regulations"

A photo of Sean Bender. He has a purple/maroon Nike polo on and has brown hair. Behind him is the downtown KC cityscape with buildings of various sizes.

This graphic has a portrait of Kathryn Pavia, MD, Critical Care Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, on the right side. On the left is text that explains who she received funding from and for what project: National Career Development Program for Researchers in Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology award from National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). Project: “Determining and Modeling Sources of Pharmacokinetic Variability for Critically Ill Children Treated with Tri-Azole Antifungals"

11 members of the Biostatistics & Computational Biology Core stand outside for a photo together. They stand in 2 lines. The group is made up of 6 women and 5 men.

A portrait of Kevin Ginn. He has brown hair that is combed over at the side. He is wearing a light blue button-up shirt with a yellow bowtie.

A graphic on a blue background. On the right are side-by-side photos of Lori Erickson, PhD, MSHCM, MSN, NEA-BC, FAHA, CPNP-PC, Remote Health Solutions, and Jami N. Gross-Toalson, PhD, Heart Center, Developmental & Behavioral Health. On the left is the following text: First & second authors on American Heart Association Scientific Statement. Statement: "Update on Education for Families and Patients With Pediatric Heart Disease: A Focus on Technological Advancements, Procedures, and Transitions of Care: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association"

A graphic that has an outline of an athlete in the middle. They are stretching and there are colorful spots over certain parts of their body. Each colorful spot corresponds to a category in one of the boxes that surrounds them: Eye, Bone & Joint, Nutrition, Mental Health, and Skin.

This graphic has a lighter color of gold on the left and a darker color on the right half. On the right are photos, names, departments, and years for three women who have been at Children's Mercy for 20, 25, and 35 years. On the left is a list of names and departments of those who have been at Children's Mercy for 5, 10, and 15 years.