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Science News for June 17, 2008


Tracking prions

A team of researchers found that infectious prions have highly flexible loops, absent in non-infectious forms, which differ significantly in their molecular structure. The study suggests that the molecular structure is a key factor in determining a protein's infectiousness.

SourceWiley·DateJun 17, 2008

Infant play drives chimpanzee respiratory disease cycles

A new study on chimpanzees reveals that infant mortality rates cycle in phase with social play amongst infants, driven by the ontogeny of playfulness. This three-year cycle is self-organized and emerges naturally from the demography, developmental ontogeny, and social behavior of chimpanzees.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 17, 2008

Invest in a future without dementia

The Australian Dementia Research report recommends increasing funding for dementia research three-fold to $36 million to keep pace with rising treatment and care costs. By 2030, dementia's projected healthcare cost is expected to reach $8.2 billion, with the number of people with dementia set to double to over 460,000.

Latrines trounce toilets

A study by Michigan Technological University researchers found that installing proper latrines can significantly improve sanitation conditions in Africa. The findings also highlight the importance of handwashing habits in preventing diseases such as dysentery.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 17, 2008

Falls, depression and antidepressants in later life

A study found that depression and antidepressants significantly increase the risk of falls among older people. SSRIs were associated with a 66% higher risk of falls. Effective prevention programs include home assessments and modifications to reduce hazards. Family members must be involved in fall prevention strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 17, 2008

How female chimps call off the competition

Chimpanzee females employ copulation calls strategically to minimize social competition, particularly with other females. This behavioral adaptation allows them to secure the protective support of high-ranking males, thereby reducing risks associated with female-female competition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 17, 2008

Stowers Institute's Shilatifard Lab identifies new role for factor critical to transcription

The Shilatifard Lab discovered that ELL plays a critical role in regulating gene expression by causing temporary interruptions of Pol II transcription in fruit flies. This finding has implications for understanding the pathogenesis of childhood leukemia and developing targeted therapeutics.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2008