Data-logging bacteria tracks gut health, potential replacement for invasive procedures
Scientists are sending bacteria to the frontlines. New research in the journal Science shows a potential future of using bacteria as a data logger. Researchers modified parts of gut bacteria using CRISPR technology and administered it to mice. They then collected fecal samples, isolated the modified bacteria, and were able to track the environmental conditions within the guts of the mice. The scientists hope this becomes the standard for evaluating a patient’s health status instead of invasive procedures like endoscopies (ETH Zurich).
Two drug inhaler shown to reduce risk of asthma attack
A new drug cocktail reduces the risk of having an asthma attack. A study of more than three thousand patients evaluated the efficacy of using two asthma drugs together in one inhaler. The paper, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, shows the combo reduced annual asthma attacks by 24 percent and improved patients’ lung functioning.
CDC tracking acute hepatitis of unknown cause
What should you know about hepatitis in children? Though the condition is rare in kids, more than 100 cases have recently been reported in the U.S., according to the CDC. Medical experts say not to panic but watch out for symptoms like jaundice and dark urine. In addition, the CDC says parents should keep their kids up to date on their vaccines.
Research show ordinary road objects like cardboard boxes can trick self-driving cars
And finally… driverless cars may not yet be the safest option. A recent paper presented at the Network and Distributed System Security Symposium shows how ordinary road objects can trick autonomous vehicles. Researchers found that cardboard boxes left on the side of roads made the cars permanently stop. Other tests showed how some cars were unable to perceive a threat and continued driving on the dangerous path. With these vehicles previously being involved in fatal crashes, scientists warn manufacturers to develop self-driving cars with caution (UC Irvine).
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