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Science News for September 9, 2015


Study: Physician-patient decision making may differ in care of racial/ethnic minorities

A new study published in Patient Education and Counseling found that patients of minority race/ethnicity groups receive less information from their doctors about treatment rationale and scientific research. The study emphasizes the importance of consistent physician-patient communication to ensure equal care for all patients.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateSep 9, 2015

Discrimination during adolescence has lasting effect on body

Researchers at Northwestern University found that discrimination during adolescence can have a lasting impact on cortisol levels, leading to flatter diurnal rhythms and increased risk of fatigue, mental health issues, and cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that cumulative experiences of discrimination, particularly during adole...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateSep 9, 2015

New enzyme-replacement therapy shows promise for genetic lipid disease treatment

A new enzyme-replacement therapy, Sebelipase Alfa, has been shown to effectively treat Lysosomal Acid Lipase Deficiency by reducing disease-related liver and blood cholesterol abnormalities. The therapy, which targets hepatocytes, resulted in lower cholesterol levels and reduced liver fat content in patients with the condition.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 9, 2015

Higher-earning men would take a pay cut to spend more time with partners

A study of over 4,000 European men found that those earning the majority of household income are most likely to want to work fewer hours. Men in partnerships and without children also desire shorter working weeks. The researchers suggest businesses should prioritize work-life balance for male breadwinners to reduce overwork.

SourceSAGE·JournalSociology·DateSep 9, 2015

The sweet smell of success

Smells trigger immediate emotional responses, and olfactory branding can supplant traditional marketing signals in settings like hotel lobbies. Over 41% of guests at ITC Sonar Luxury Hotels in Kolkata agreed that scent is a key factor in enjoying their stay.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Trade and Global Markets·DateSep 9, 2015

Science provides new way to peer into pores

Rice University researchers have developed a new technique to characterize the space within porous materials, allowing them to measure dimensions and dynamics at the nanoscale. This breakthrough could improve protein separation processes for the pharmaceutical industry.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 9, 2015

Invasion of non-native genotypes exposed by environmental DNA

A team of researchers from Kobe University has developed a novel method to quantify the proportion of native and non-native genotypes in aquatic species. By analyzing environmental DNA (eDNA) from water samples, they were able to detect the presence of invasive non-native strains in rivers and reservoirs of western Japan.

SourceKobe University·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateSep 9, 2015

Mothers use variety of strategies to mitigate risks to daughters' body image -- Ben-Gurion University

Research by Ben-Gurion University shows that Jewish mothers employ various protective strategies to mitigate the risk of eating disorders in their daughters, including filtering, positive reinforcement, and discussion. These methods help build resilience and promote a positive body image.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder -- review looks at treatment effectiveness

A comprehensive review of treatment options for PMDD identified selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as the first-line treatment, effective in reducing symptoms. For women who experience an inadequate response to SSRIs, alternative treatments such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and oral contraceptives are recommended.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateSep 9, 2015

One step towards faster organic electronics

Researchers at Linköping University have discovered that disorder and short-range intermolecular aggregation can enhance the conductivity of conjugated polymers. This finding opens up new avenues for developing faster electronic components.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2015

Finding iconicity in spoken languages

A new study reveals that iconicity is prevalent across the vocabulary of spoken languages, including English and Spanish. The researchers found that words learned in childhood are the most iconic, which helps children grasp the concept of a word. The study suggests that iconicity plays an important role in word learning and development.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 9, 2015

Stress main cause of smoking after childbirth

A new report from the University of East Anglia found that mothers who quit smoking in pregnancy are more likely to light up again if they feel stressed and lack support. The study highlights the importance of partner support, social influences, and women's beliefs about smoking in preventing postpartum relapse.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAddiction·DateSep 9, 2015

Ant communication: Secrets of the antennae

Researchers at Kobe University identified novel chemosensory proteins in ant antennae, revealing cooperative modes of operation and recognition of individual information. These findings provide a starting point for elucidating the molecular mechanisms supporting complex ant societies.

SourceKobe University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 9, 2015

New Ebola test could help curb disease spread

A new Ebola test using magnetic nanoparticles is 100 times more sensitive than current tests and easier to use, enabling faster isolation of patients and prevention of disease spread. This technology has potential applications in diagnosing other infectious diseases like flu and detecting tumors.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateSep 9, 2015

Study finds children eat healthier at daycare centers than at home

A recent study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that preschool-age children consume more calories and fewer fruits, vegetables, and milk outside of child-care centers. The study suggests excess calorie consumption away from the center is significantly associated with being overweight.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateSep 9, 2015

Penn team: Sustained remission of multiple myeloma after personalized cellular therapy

A multiple myeloma patient experienced complete remission after receiving a personalized cellular therapy called CTL019, which targets cancerous white blood cells. The treatment was combined with chemotherapy and an autologous stem cell transplant, and the patient remains in remission over 12 months after infusion.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 9, 2015

Postoperative delirium results in poor outcomes in older adults

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that postoperative delirium significantly increases adverse outcomes in older adults, including prolonged hospital stays and institutional discharge. Delirium alone exerts the highest risk of adverse outcomes at the population level compared to other major surgical complications.

New research confirms how to take better workday breaks

A new study by Baylor University researchers reveals that taking mid-morning breaks is more beneficial than traditional afternoon breaks for boosting energy, concentration, and motivation. The research also suggests that preferred break activities, such as work-related tasks, are key to restful recovery and improved job satisfaction.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateSep 9, 2015

Study points to a possible new pathway toward a vaccine against MRSA

A new study by NYU Langone Health has found that the presence or absence of dueling toxins in Staphylococcus aureus bacteria explains why hospital-acquired MRSA is more deadly than community-acquired forms. The study reveals a key toxin that counteracts another, more deadly toxin, opening up possible new pathways for vaccine development.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 9, 2015