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Cancer scientists crack the durian genome

Researchers from SingHealth, Duke-NUS Medical School, and NCCS have sequenced the complete genetic blueprint of durian, a tropical fruit known for its unique smell. The study reveals that durian has approximately 46,000 genes, nearly double those found in humans.

SourceSingHealth·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 9, 2017

Trench Foot discovery paves way for new treatment

Researchers have discovered that patients with non-freezing cold injury, also known as 'trench foot,' have a significant reduction in nerve fibers within the skin. This damage causes chronic pain experienced by these patients. Understanding the root cause of the condition may lead to new treatments and improved prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalBrain·DateOct 9, 2017

Identifying ways to minimize the harm of energy drinks

Researchers found that young people's confusion about energy drinks suggests the need for educational campaigns. Participants suggested strategies to reduce consumption, including restrictions on sale, changing packaging, and increasing prices.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateOct 5, 2017

After medical error, apology goes a long way

A study published in Health Affairs found that communication-and-resolution programs significantly improve patient safety while reducing liability costs. The programs, which include apologies and explanations for medical errors, lead to a low percentage of events resulting in lawsuits, with only 5% leading to malpractice claims.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 2, 2017

Prenatal weight talks are easier with props

A new study by Allina Health found that using a combination of education and a tracking tool improves communication about gestational weight gain during prenatal care. Patients at intervention clinics were more likely to remember provider advice on weight gain and report a target weight within guidelines.

SourceAllina Health·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateSep 25, 2017

Gender-open science

The University of Freiburg is leading a three-year project to strengthen gender skills in MINT disciplines and promote equal opportunities. The initiative will develop online teaching modules highlighting the impact of diversity on medical diagnoses and combating gender stereotypes in technology.

Belief in neuromyths is extremely common

A recent study found that belief in neuromyths, such as seeing letters backwards being a sign of dyslexia, is prevalent among educators, the public, and those with neuroscience training. Training in education and neuroscience helps reduce these false beliefs.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateAug 10, 2017

Canadian-led study akin to antimatter forensics

A Canadian-led research collaboration reports observing spectral lines from an antimatter atom for the first time in a study published in Nature. The team studied antihydrogen and found that its spectral lines match those of hydrogen very well, which could provide clues about the nature of matter and antimatter.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2017

UC Nephrology director addresses acute kidney injury as journal guest editor

Charuhas Thakar, a leading expert on acute kidney injury (AKI), has addressed the treatment challenges of AKI as a guest editor for the Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease Journal. Thakar emphasizes the need to view AKI not only as a patient-centric issue but also as a systems quality issue that affects the entire healthcare system.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAdvances in Chronic Kidney Disease·DateAug 2, 2017

Study finds promise in new tactic to curb obesity: Address physician bias

A new educational initiative at Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine has significantly reduced medical students' negative attitudes toward people with obesity. The program emphasizes the complexities of obesity and focuses on attaining health instead of weight loss, leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJul 31, 2017

Canada should continue with separate medical stream after cannabis is legalized for recreational use

A commentary in CMAJ argues that a two-streamed structure is necessary to keep patients safe and support research into the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. This structure would provide incentives for research, educational resources for healthcare practitioners, and reduce risk to patients.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 17, 2017