Winner of the 2019 Capstone Editing Grant for Professional Thesis Editing
We are pleased to announce the 2019 winner of The Capstone Grant for Professional Thesis Editing, Lauren Chartier! Lauren is a PhD student currently studying a Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) in the Department of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Adelaide. Previously, she studied a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Health Science at the University of Adelaide.
Lauren’s thesis by publication is titled ‘The effects of novel nutraceuticals on experimentally-induced colitis-associated colorectal cancer’, which she expects to be ready for submission in July 2020. The papers featured in Lauren’s thesis by publication have been published in esteemed peer-reviewed journals, such as the Journal of Nutrition and Cancer and the Public Library of Science One. Moreover, nine of Lauren’s articles on this topic have been published in international journals such as the Journal of Digestive Diseases and Sciences and the Journal of Gastroenterology.
Lauren’s thesis will present the remarkable results of her meticulous research on the use of Emu Oil to protect intestines, reducing the severity of chronic colitis and preventing the onset of neoplasia (abnormal growth of tissue). Her research regarding ulcerative colitis is crucial, as there are limited treatments for this remitting and relapsing inflammatory bowel disorder. Colitis is a chronic disease that, when poorly controlled, can progress to colorectal cancer. Her thesis abstract (see below) demonstrates her dedication and ingenuity, and we are incredibly pleased to assist such an esteemed individual in the academic community.
The Capstone Editing Grant for Professional Thesis Editing will assist Lauren’s research by providing her with our editing services to an approximate value of $900.00 for 23,000 words. Capstone’s editors will ensure that her vital study and years of hard work are presented in the best possible light—a standard befitting the importance of her research.
Lauren’s thesis abstract
Ulcerative colitis is an unremitting and lifelong inflammatory bowel disease that is increasing in prevalence worldwide. Patients display various clinical symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and fatigue. The aetiology of ulcerative colitis remains unknown and the current pharmaceutical treatments are variably effective and not curative. Furthermore, patients with ulcerative colitis are at an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Some naturally sourced agents have been identified to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Of particular interest is Emu Oil, grape seed extract and Japanese Kampo medicine. Previously, Emu Oil has demonstrated efficacy in protecting and repairing intestinal damage in models of gastrointestinal diseases. Additionally, grape seed extract possesses anti-cancer properties in vitro. Moreover, Kampo medicine, composed of herbal ingredients, is widely used in Japan for the treatment of various medical conditions. Kampo has demonstrated efficacy in targeting cancer cells in vitro and reducing inflammation in animal models of intestinal damage. These naturally sourced therapies are yet to be widely investigated in a setting of ulcerative colitis and colitis-associated colorectal cancer. Investigation into the efficacy of Emu Oil, grape seed extract and Kampo medicine—alone and in combination—is warranted because they may provide a novel alternative to conventional colitis and colorectal cancer management.