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McMaster University


Old drug may be key to new antibiotics

A new class of antibiotics could be developed using the anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine, which inhibits bacterial ribosome assembly. Researchers at McMaster University discovered that lamotrigine stops ribosomes from being created in bacteria, a breakthrough in tackling antibiotic resistance.

Higher risk of heart disease for South Asians in Canada

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that South Asians in Canada have a higher prevalence of heart disease, with rates of death from coronary artery disease being 42% for men and 29% for women. The study also highlighted the need for standardized surveillance systems to monitor non-communicable diseases a...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 22, 2014

Any diet works, if you stick to it

A recent study published in JAMA found that branded diets, such as Atkins and Weight Watchers, are effective for weight loss when adhered to. Behavioural support and exercise also play a significant role in enhancing weight loss outcomes.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA·DateSep 2, 2014

Knee surgery not needed for mild osteoarthritis: Study

A meta-analysis review of seven randomized control trials found no short-term pain relief and limited long-term function improvement in patients with some osteoarthritis after arthroscopic knee surgery. The study suggests that non-operative treatments should be used first for middle-aged or older patients.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 25, 2014

A water test for the world

A team of McMaster researchers has developed a simple pill that can test water safety using a dissolving breath strip technology. The new method reduces the need for expensive lab equipment and shipping water to the lab, making it potentially life-saving for people in remote areas.

McMaster researchers 'fish new pond' for antibiotics

Researchers at McMaster University have developed a novel approach to find new antibiotics by targeting the processes that bacteria use to produce essential vitamins and amino acids. The study identifies chemical compounds that block these processes, potentially providing much-needed therapies to address antibiotic drug resistance.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 13, 2013

McMaster lab develops new tuberculosis vaccine

Researchers have developed a new tuberculosis vaccine that acts as a booster to the existing Bacille Calmette Guerin (BCG) vaccine, which is ineffective in many cases. The vaccine was tested in a phase one clinical study and showed a robust immune response in most trial participants.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 2, 2013

Video killed the interview star

Researchers at McMaster University found that video conferencing in job interviews can lead to less likable candidates and lower ratings for interviewers. The study suggests that face-to-face interviews are essential for accurate assessments and positive evaluations.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalManagement Decision·DateJul 29, 2013

Physician bonuses help drive increases in surgery with minimal patient benefit: McMaster study

A McMaster University study found that financial incentives for Ontario surgeons led to an increase in the use of laparoscopic colon cancer surgery. The research suggests that this may not result in significant improvements in patient outcomes, despite potential benefits such as shorter hospital stays and smaller visible scars.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateJul 22, 2013

A guide to help physicians talk to their patients about dying

A new conversation guide aims to improve physicians' ability to discuss end-of-life care with patients, addressing the growing need for sensitive discussions due to an aging population and chronic illness. The guide provides practical advice on identifying high-risk patients, communicating prognosis, and clarifying patient values.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 15, 2013

1 in 6 women at fracture clinics report domestic violence

A large international study led by McMaster researchers found that one in six women arriving at orthopedic fracture clinics have been victims of physical, emotional, or sexual violence within the past year. This highlights the need for healthcare professionals to identify and support victims of intimate partner violence, who are often ...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 11, 2013

Women make better decisions than men

A survey of over 600 board directors found that women are more likely to consider the rights of others and take a cooperative approach to decision-making. This results in better performance for their companies, with women-led boards experiencing higher returns on equity and lower rates of bankruptcy.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalInternational Journal of Business Governance and Ethics·DateMar 25, 2013