Scientists report preliminary studies suggesting chlorine treatment in wastewater plants may create new, stronger antibiotics. This could contribute to growing antibiotic resistance problem and harm aquatic life.
Researchers found that vitamin D supplements slowed tumor growth and reduced inflammation in men with low-grade prostate cancer. The study suggests that vitamin D may improve treatment outcomes for these patients by reducing the need for aggressive treatments.
A study by Queensland University of Technology found that almost half of respondents modified medication dosage forms without seeking advice from healthcare professionals. The research highlights the potential dangers of crushing tablets or modifying capsules, which can lead to reduced effectiveness and increased risk of adverse effects.
Researchers have programmed bacteria to generate a hunger-suppressing lipid, leading to reduced body fat and staved-off diabetes in mice. The therapeutic bacteria could provide sustained drug delivery, potentially improving weight loss outcomes for humans.
A promising new antivenom derived from opossum serum has shown promise in neutralizing snake venom, with potential for widespread distribution and a single injectable dose. The peptide-based treatment could save thousands of lives worldwide without the side effects of current treatments.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method to convert waste packing peanuts into high-performance carbon electrodes for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The new anodes outperform conventional graphite electrodes and charge faster, making them a promising environmentally friendly solution.
Researchers find that nitrogen dioxide and ground-level ozone can increase the potency of airborne allergens, contributing to rising allergy rates. The study suggests chemical modifications of allergenic proteins may play a key role in the increasing prevalence of allergies worldwide.
Research links genetic changes in bowel tumours to immune system responses, suggesting potential for targeted immunotherapy treatments. Genetic profiles could be used to diagnose suitability for immunotherapies and tailor treatment plans.
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that routine potassium monitoring for healthy women taking spironolactone for acne does not change the course of treatment, but cumulatively costs $80,000. The researchers suggest ending routine testing to improve patient care experience and reduce healthcare spending.
A molecule from plants and trees, lignin, could be used to create asphalt and sealant mixtures that are more environmentally friendly and durable. Lignin, a renewable resource found in trees, has been integrated into bitumen to improve its performance and reduce the amount of non-renewable oil needed.
Climate change is expected to accelerate the emergence of vector-borne diseases such as chikungunya and dengue fever in the UK. Rising temperatures could enable disease-carrying mosquitoes like Aedes albopictus to survive across large parts of England and Wales within decades.
Scientists convert packing peanuts into high-tech carbon microsheets and nanoparticles for use in rechargeable batteries, achieving higher energy storage capacity than existing materials. The new process uses lower temperatures and produces more environmentally friendly materials.