Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2017 - Page 18


Page 18 of 40

Like a moth to a flame

The spruce budworm's massive defoliation can lead to devastating consequences for the forest industry, causing an estimated $3 billion to $4 billion in losses over the next 30 years in New Brunswick alone. Defoliation increases the risk of natural fires igniting eight to 10 years after a budworm outbreak.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalEcological Applications·DateJun 19, 2017

Treating autism by targeting the gut

Researchers found that restoring a healthy balance in gut bacteria can treat Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) symptoms. The review highlights several studies showing positive impacts of probiotics, prebiotics, diet changes and faecal matter transplants on ASD symptoms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateJun 19, 2017

Discovery could guide immunotherapy for lung cancer

Scientists have discovered a new type of immune cell that can predict which lung cancer patients will benefit from immunotherapy treatment. The study found that patients with high levels of tissue-resident memory T-cells in their tumour were more likely to survive, and the cells' behaviour played a key role in increasing survival rates.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature Immunology·DateJun 19, 2017

Mutant mosquitos make insecticide-resistance monitoring key to controlling Zika

A recent study by Emory University highlights the importance of insecticide-resistance monitoring in controlling the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases. The research found that applying insecticides like deltamethrin in areas with high resistance can be ineffective, emphasizing the need for targeted control measures.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 19, 2017

Self-medication misuse is high in the Middle East

A systematic review reveals widespread self-medication misuse in the Middle East, with pharmacies selling up to 97% of antibiotics without a prescription. The study emphasizes the need for improved policies and education to address this issue.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateJun 19, 2017

Airborne viruses live for 45 minutes

Researchers from Queensland University of Technology found that airborne pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria can remain viable in the air for up to 45 minutes after being expelled by human coughs and sneezes. This could have significant implications for infection control in hospitals, particularly for patients with cystic fibrosis.

Acupuncture relieves pain in emergency patients: Study

A world's largest randomized controlled trial found acupuncture as effective as pain medicine in providing long-term relief for patients with considerable pain. Despite initial pain persistence, acupuncture was deemed a viable treatment option for those unable to take standard drugs due to medical conditions.

SourceRMIT University·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateJun 18, 2017

New relapse prediction tool reduces cost of rheumatoid arthritis treatment

A new relapse prediction tool has been developed to reduce the cost of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. The tool, which combines two measurements to predict the risk of relapse in patients with RA, allows for successful dose reduction of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), resulting in significant cost savings.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Education a top priority

A public opinion survey conducted across eight Western European countries found that 80% of respondents support increasing spending on education, while only 20% back defense policy. Respondents prioritize general school education and vocational training, with 62% demanding more funding in these sectors.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of European Social Policy·DateJun 16, 2017

Education for people with RMDS and employers can improve ability to work

An educational programme implemented by the Galician Rheumatology League improved employees' self-confidence in their work capacity and awareness of solvable limitations. The programme also helped employers understand specific needs of people with RMDs, making necessary adaptations to keep them at work.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Genes explain higher prevalence of CVD in chronic IMID patients

A study found that chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are linked to a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease in patients. The research identified specific genetic patterns associated with cardiovascular disease risk across different chronic IMID patient groups, which could lead to the development of more efficient preve...

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017