Scientists hail new antibiotic that can kill drug-resistant bacteria
Scientists have made a breakthrough in antibiotic research with Zosurabalpin, a new drug effective against drug-resistant bacteria like Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (Crab). This discovery, significant in the fight against antibiotic resistance, has shown promising results in mouse models for pneumonia and sepsis and is now progressing to human trials. Crab, a critical pathogen identified by the World Health Organization, is notorious for its resistance to multiple antibiotics. Zosurabalpin, developed by Roche Pharma, is notable as the first new antibiotic for Gram-negative bacteria, known for their protective outer shells, in over fifty years. Research demonstrates that Zosurabalpin disrupts the bacterium's outer membrane, effectively killing it. This breakthrough offers new avenues for antibiotic development against similar bacteria. However, experts like Dr Andrew Edwards and Dr Michael Lobritz emphasise that this is not a complete solution to antimicrobial resistance. The UK's science committee suggests exploring bacteriophages as an alternative treatment, recommending a production facility at the Rosalind Franklin laboratory to facilitate clinical trials.
Junior doctors’ strikes ‘have public support’ as NHS suffers mass cancellations
Junior doctors in England are currently engaged in the longest strike in NHS history, demanding a 35% pay increase from their current hourly rate of £15-£17 to around £20. Despite five weeks of unsuccessful talks last year with the British Medical Association, the Government remains firm in its refusal to negotiate during the strike. The doctors, who claim strong public support, argue that their six-day strike is the only way to get the government's attention regarding their pay and working conditions. Health secretary Victoria Atkins is accused of pushing medics out of the negotiation room. Dr Robert Laurenson, co-chair of the BMA’s junior doctors committee, stressed the necessity of the strike, citing a workforce crisis and the government's alleged unresponsiveness to other forms of dialogue. Public opinions are mixed, with some expressing sympathy for the doctors’ plight, acknowledging their critical role and the current economic pressures. Others, however, suggest gratitude for employment during difficult times. The strike has sparked concerns about junior doctors moving abroad for better pay and conditions; Dr Georgia Blackwell notes a growing trend of doctors relocating to countries like Australia for improved work-life balance and higher earnings.
Reform leader turns fire on Labour, calls for election
Shifting focus from his usual target, the Tories, Richard Tice, leader of Reform UK, has coined the term 'Starmergeddon ' to describe the potential consequences of a Labour election victory. Despite ongoing speculation, he remained noncommittal about Nigel Farage's role in Reform's campaign. Labour, preparing for a possible spring election, faces Tice's accusations of betraying working-class voters, particularly on immigration. Tice outlined Reform's policies, including raising the income tax threshold and reducing fuel duty, while advocating for stricter immigration controls. In a strategic shift from 2019, when the party, then known as the Brexit Party, stood down in several Tory seats, Tice said it would contest every seat in England, Scotland, and Wales. He dismissed the concern that Reform would split the conservative vote, focusing instead on challenging the current political landscape. Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson expressed concern over Reform's potential impact, suggesting Farage's leadership could be crucial for their success. Tice, however, remains unfazed.
Revealed: almost half of British teens addicted to social media
Nearly half of British teenagers feel addicted to social media, according to a recent study. This concern coincides with increasing scrutiny over the impact of big tech platforms on users, especially young people. The study, involving around 19,000 individuals born between 2000-2002 in the UK, found that 48% of respondents felt a lack of control over their social media usage. The data, revealing a higher proportion of girls (57%) than boys (37%) feeling this way, suggests a problematic relationship with these platforms. Researchers emphasise that feeling addicted doesn't equate to clinical addiction but indicates an unhealthy relationship with social media. The findings come amidst broader concerns about digital technology fostering compulsive behaviours, as evidenced by the WHO's recognition of 'gaming disorder' and the US surgeon general's warning about social media's risks to mental health. This study highlights the growing need to understand and manage the complex relationship between young people and digital technologies.
