As a therapist working in an educational setting, I'm always excited to see the progress of my students. Recently, I came across some fascinating research presented at the 2020 UCD School of Medicine Summer Student Research Awards (SSRA 2020). The insights from this research can be incredibly beneficial for practitioners looking to improve their skills and encourage further research in their fields. Here, I'll share some key takeaways from the research and how they can be implemented in practice.
Understanding the Research
The SSRA 2020 showcased a variety of research projects, each with its unique findings and implications. Some notable studies included:
- Disease-Gene Networks and Three-Dimensional Structural Modelling of Melanin Biosynthesis Pathway Enzymes
- Is Patient or Physician Global Assessment a Better Predictor of Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis: A Meta-Analysis
- Hetairos-Search: A Command-Line Tool to Facilitate the Analysis of Functionally Related and Clustered Protein Domains in Bacteria and Archaea
- An Investigation into Self-Reported Quality of Life in Patients Living with Hepatitis C; Data from the TRACER Cohort
- Utilizing the Dog-Owner Relationship to Improve the Health of Both Humans and Canines
Implementing Research Outcomes
Here are some practical ways practitioners can implement the findings from these studies:
1. Disease-Gene Networks
The study on melanin biosynthesis pathways offers insights into pigmentation disorders and their genetic associations. Practitioners can use this information to better understand the genetic underpinnings of such disorders and tailor treatments accordingly. Utilizing software tools like Cytoscape to visualize disease-gene networks can also enhance diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
2. Psoriatic Arthritis Assessments
The meta-analysis comparing patient and physician global assessments in psoriatic arthritis provides valuable information on disease activity predictors. Practitioners can refine their assessment methods by considering both patient-reported outcomes and clinical evaluations, leading to more comprehensive and personalized treatment plans.
3. Hetairos-Search Tool
The development of Hetairos-Search for analyzing protein domain clusters in bacteria and archaea can be a game-changer for microbiologists. Practitioners can leverage this tool to identify functionally related protein domains, aiding in the understanding of bacterial resistance mechanisms and the development of targeted antibiotics.
4. Quality of Life in Hepatitis C Patients
The TRACER cohort study highlights the impact of hepatitis C on patients' quality of life. Practitioners can use these findings to advocate for more holistic care approaches that address both physical and mental health needs, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
5. Dog-Owner Relationship
The research on the dog-owner relationship emphasizes the potential for promoting healthier behaviors in dog owners. Practitioners working in both human and veterinary health can develop intervention programs that leverage this relationship to encourage positive lifestyle changes, benefiting both humans and their pets.
Encouraging Further Research
While the SSRA 2020 research provides valuable insights, it's essential to continue exploring these areas to build a more comprehensive understanding. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in further research, collaborate with academic institutions, and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in their fields.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Meeting abstracts from the 2020 UCD School of Medicine Summer Student Research Awards (SSRA 2020).
