Lancet
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Blinding embodies a rich history spanning over two centuries. Most researchers worldwide understand blinding terminology, but confusion lurks beyond a general comprehension. Terms such as single blind, double blind, and triple blind mean different things to different people. ⋯ If investigators properly report their blinding efforts, readers can judge them. Unfortunately, many articles do not contain proper reporting. If an article claims blinding without any accompanying clarification, readers should remain sceptical about its effect on bias reduction.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Efficacy of a Cancer Research UK communication skills training model for oncologists: a randomised controlled trial.
Doctors' communication with patients is commonly hampered by lack of training in this core skill. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an intensive 3-day training course on communication skills in a randomised controlled trial with a two-by-two factorial design and several outcomes. ⋯ The communication problems of senior doctors working in cancer medicine are not resolved by time and clinical experience. This trial shows that training courses significantly improve key communication skills. More resources should be allocated to address doctors' training needs in this vital area.
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The muscular dystrophies are inherited myogenic disorders characterised by progressive muscle wasting and weakness of variable distribution and severity. They can be subdivided into several groups, including congenital forms, in accordance with the distribution of predominant muscle weakness: Duchenne and Becker; Emery-Dreifuss; distal; facioscapulohumeral; oculopharyngeal; and limb-girdle which is the most heterogeneous group. In several dystrophies the heart can be seriously affected, sometimes in the absence of clinically significant weakness. ⋯ This information is essential to establish an accurate diagnosis and for reliable genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis. There is, as yet, no way of greatly affecting the long-term course of any of these diseases. However, advances in gene manipulation and stem-cell therapy suggest cautious optimism for finding an effective treatment in the not-too-distant future.