Research published this week in Genome Medicine suggests that aristolochic acid, a compound present in herbal remedies, may contribute to bladder cancer development. In this guest blog, study author Professor Steven G. Rozen, currently a member of the Cancer and Stem Cell Program at Duke-National University Medical School, discusses the implications of their findings.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision loss in older people. Here, we speak to Layal Chaker and Robin Peeters, authors of a recent study published in BMC Medicine, about why thyroid function and AMD may be linked, and the clinical implications of their findings.
1
An update from the 1st European Stroke Organisation Conference.
How can we improve sepsis recognition and management? In a forum article published today in BMC Medicine, experts in sepsis care explore this issue, highlighting special considerations in different patient groups. This blog takes a look at the importance of detecting sepsis quickly, and possible strategies for improving early detection.
The concept of patient and public involvement (PPI) in research is now well-accepted, but the evidence for how best to do it is still somewhat lacking. Many policy documents recommend PPI training for both academic researchers and patients involved in research, but new research published today in Trials indicates that many of those involved take a different view. Here, Professor Bridget Young tells us more about their research.
World Malaria Day 2015 aims to highlight recent progress in malaria control efforts and bring together global initiatives to eliminate the disease. To mark this year’s theme – invest in the future, defeat malaria – we take a look at some recent research that should help inform malaria control strategies in the future.
Low platelet counts have long been associated with malaria, and have recently been proposed as a valuable tool in the recognition of severe infections. However, the results of a study by Josh Hanson and colleagues published today in BMC Medicine suggest that the platelet count has limited utility for clinicians trying to identify patients with severe malaria. Here, Hanson discusses the findings and implications of their study.
1
A study published today in BMC Medicine investigates the effect of traditional beliefs and customs on the spread of Ebola using a mathematical modeling approach. Here, authors Folashade Agusto, Miranda Teboh-Ewungkem, and Abba Gumel tell us more about how cultural practices could contribute towards the spread of Ebola in affected countries, and the interventions required to combat the disease.
1
To mark World Malaria Day, we spoke to Rose McGready, Deputy Director of the Shoklo Malaria Research Unit (SMRU), about a typical day in her life, how she was inspired to work on malaria in a resource-limited setting, and what she thinks are the greatest challenges and best aspects of her work.