It may be quieter in Melbourne following the Easter break and with schools on holidays, but Alliance researchers and health care professionals are still hard at work. This week, studies reveal why processed foods trigger kidney disease and a new device makes treatment for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy more convenient. A number of our researchers have also been recognised for their excellent work – always great to see! Welcome to this week at the Alfred Research Alliance…
ALFRED HEALTH
Pre-programming the way forward for epilepsy
For people living with drug-resistant epilepsy, one treatment option is a Vagal Nerve Stimulator (VNS) implant, which is programmed to deliver pulses to the vagal nerve, to control or prevent seizures. Previously, updates to the VNS were required every two weeks. Now, a new model means The Alfred’s neurology team can pre-program treatment months in advance – meaning patients can visit the hospital less often. Read more…
MONASH CENTRAL CLINICAL SCHOOL
Dr Gemma Sharp receives prestigious APS ‘Rising Star’ Award
Congratulations to Dr Gemma Sharp, who has won an international Association for Psychological Science (APS) Rising Star for 2021 Award for her pioneering work in the field of body image. The Award recognises early career researchers who have demonstrated excellence in publications, received significant recognitions, made significant discoveries, generated work with broad impact, and established an independent research career. Read more…
Study reveals why processed foods trigger chronic kidney disease
A recent study led by Monash University diabetes researchers has shown that a diet high in processed foods brings on leaky gut syndrome, which in turn increases the risk of kidney disease. The study, led by A/Prof Melinda Coughlan, revealed that inflammation caused by the triggering of harmful chemical compounds called Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) can be tackled by introducing foods containing a specialised fibre. Read more…
BURNET INSTITUTE
Burnet students pick up PSANZ Awards
Two students from Burnet’s Global Women’s and Newborn’s Health Group have won prizes at the recent Annual Congress of the Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand (PSANZ). Polly Pavlidis won the New Investigator Award for Best Oral in Epidemiology, and Samia Aziz a poster prize for her work focused on the cost effectiveness of the drug Tranexamic Acid for treatment of post-partum haemorrhage. Read more…