Autism and the gut microbiome: What’s the link?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a “neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviours.” Although ASD affects 1 in 100 children globally, the exact causes of ASD have yet to be fully understood. Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are common in ASD patients and cause significant morbidity. Researchers […]
Success factors in academic-industry collaborations for research commercialisation

Academia and industry are two significant pillars which are essential for wider progress and development in society. While academia is largely concerned with the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, industry focuses on the application of knowledge to generate innovative solutions addressing the needs of (and subsequently improving) the lives of people. While these two pillars […]
Using AI systems to screen for breast cancer

Using artificial intelligence (AI) software and systems to diagnose breast cancer – this is no longer an idea, way off in the distant future. Oncologists and radiologists around the world now have the opportunity to partner with and benefit from AI. A 2022 large-scale, retrospective observational study* investigated the potential use and effectiveness of using […]
Why use Plain Language Summaries?

Have you ever been in the situation where you’re explaining your study methods or exciting research findings to a friend and they start to get a distant, glazed-over look? They’re struggling to understand the finer detail of your conversation. Or you’ve been called on to write a progress report, funding application, or article submission and […]
Oncology research: four ways a medical writer can improve your chances of publication

With manuscript acceptance rates in leading oncology journals as low as 15% and rates in mid-impact journals at ~50%, the nature of research publication in the field of oncology is becoming increasingly competitive. It is now harder than ever to get your research published and your voice heard; however, working with a professional medical writer […]