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Science News Archive September 2018 - Page 12


Page 12 of 37

New way to target advanced breast cancers

Researchers have identified a link between inflammation and cancer growth in HER2-negative breast cancers, revealing anakinra as a potential treatment target. Anakinra, an existing anti-inflammatory drug, reduces gene expression of IL1b and other cytokines, improving symptoms and quality of life for some patients.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 20, 2018

Fish-rich diets may boost babies' brain development

Research suggests that consuming fatty fish during pregnancy can enhance babies' brain function and visual development. The study analyzed 56 mothers and their children, finding that those who ate fish three or more times a week had better test results for visual functioning and maturational changes.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateSep 20, 2018

MDMA (a.k.a. ecstasy) makes octopuses more social too

Researchers found that octopuses, which are typically solitary and asocial, become more interested in interacting with each other when under the influence of MDMA. The study suggests that common molecular pathways enable serotonin to encode social behaviors in both humans and octopuses.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 20, 2018

Gut fungus exacerbates asthma in antibiotic-treated mice

A non-pathogenic fungus can expand in the intestines of antibiotic-treated mice and enhance the severity of allergic airways disease. The study suggests that alterations in gut microbiota induced by intestinal fungi might be a previously unrecognized but potentially important risk factor for patients with asthma.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 20, 2018

Putting underused smart devices to work

Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute are exploring a novel 'DisCoEdge' system to optimize device usage and create new services. The system aims to spread heavy computational tasks and large storage over simple devices, enabling novel applications like cooperative data sharing and corporate storage systems.

Preventing a dengue outbreak at the 2020 Summer Olympics

Researchers identified 20 critical points for disease detection, assessment, and patient communication to strengthen Japan's preparedness plans. Gaps in current controls, including missed cases at accommodations and communication failures, were highlighted.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 20, 2018

Study documents poor mental and physical health in rural borderland community members

A study on inequalities and health among foreign-born Latinos in rural borderland communities found that population is vulnerable to high stress negatively impacting mental and physical health. Historical factors such as oppression of farm labor and current practices like racial profiling contribute to low social status, employment ins...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 20, 2018

New research finds annual well visit increases likelihood of preventive services

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that annual wellness visits significantly increase the delivery of preventive services among the elderly population. The research revealed that participants with an AWV were more likely to undergo screenings for prostate cancer, influenza vaccine, and other recommended services.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateSep 20, 2018

Manganese plays a key role in bacterial infection

Enterococcus faecalis relies on manganese acquisition systems for virulence, which are essential for growth in manganese-restricted environments. Inactivating these transporters led to a loss of virulence in animal models, making them promising targets for new antimicrobial therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 20, 2018

Fatty acids can slow down an overheated immune system

Researchers from Aarhus University have discovered a new type of fatty acid that can slow down the overactive STING protein, which is normally an important part of our immune system. This breakthrough has opened a new path to developing effective treatments for autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and SAVI.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 20, 2018