📰 Ancient ‘pharaoh’s curse’ fungus shows promise in killing cancer cells
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a potentially powerful compound derived from the fungus Aspergillus flavus that shows promise in fighting cancer by enhancing its cancer-killing properties. This compound could offer a new avenue for cancer therapy, particularly in leukemia treatment. The study focused on ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) found in the fungus, which have shown potent effects against leukemia cells in laboratory experiments. The compound was found to block the formation of microtubules essential for cancer cell division. While the study is still in early stages and further testing is needed, the researchers are hopeful about the potential of this natural product in developing new cancer treatments. The research received support from various organizations, and future plans include animal testing and human trials to explore the fungus’s therapeutic potential further.
📰 Billionaire’s death after swallowing bee raises questions about rare cardiac reaction
Sunjay Kapur, a billionaire from India and chairman of Sona Comstar, passed away suddenly at the age of 53 in Windsor, England. His friend Suhel Seth confirmed his death, expressing condolences to his family and colleagues. Reports indicated that Kapur died while playing polo after swallowing a bee, potentially leading to a fatal heart attack. However, no official confirmation linked the bee sting to the heart attack. Dr. Nishant Kalra explained that swallowing a bee could trigger a heart attack through specific mechanisms, especially if the individual is allergic, leading to anaphylaxis or Kounis syndrome. While such cases are rare, individuals with known venom hypersensitivity or underlying cardiac disease should be cautious.
📰 Body fat predicts major health risk that BMI misses, researchers say
A new study from the University of Florida challenges the accuracy of using BMI as a predictor of mortality risk, suggesting that body fat percentage is a more reliable indicator. The study, published in the Annals of Family Medicine, involved 4,252 participants over a 15-year period and found that those with high body fat levels were significantly more likely to die, especially from heart disease. The lead researcher, Dr. Frank Orlando, emphasized that BMI should not be solely relied upon as a measure of health, as it fails to distinguish between muscle and fat mass. While other methods like DEXA scans may offer more accuracy, they are less accessible in clinical settings. The study highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to measuring body composition for better health outcomes and public health initiatives.
📰 Extreme heat affects the brain — here’s how to protect your cognitive health
The article discusses the impact of extreme heat on mental health, highlighting how hot weather can affect the brain and cognitive function. Dr. Jace Reed from Cedars-Sinai Hospital warns that heat can lead to symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and decreased memory and reaction time. The article also mentions that heat exposure can trigger inflammation in the brain, potentially worsening existing neurological conditions. The protective blood-brain barrier may weaken in excessive heat, making the brain more vulnerable to toxins. Additionally, psychiatric emergency visits for anxiety, depression, and substance use tend to increase on the hottest days. The experts recommend prioritizing sleep, rest, and finding ways to slow down to protect brain health during extreme heat.
📰 CDC committee moves to phase out controversial mercury ingredient from flu vaccines
The article discusses the inclusion of thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative used in vaccines, on the agenda for a meeting of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Thimerosal has been used since the 1930s to prevent contamination in multi-dose vaccines and medications. In 2001, thimerosal was removed from vaccines recommended for children 6 and younger, except for influenza vaccines. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended that all adults and children should receive seasonal influenza vaccines without thimerosal. Despite concerns about mercury exposure, the CDC and other health agencies maintain that thimerosal in vaccines is safe and poses no health risks.
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