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Science News for July 7, 2016


A new wave of antimalarial drugs in preparation

Researchers have identified potential new antimalarial drugs targeting the parasite's heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), a key player in its survival and resistance to treatments. The study uses innovative modelling technology to isolate compounds that can destroy the pathogen without affecting human cells.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJul 7, 2016

Study looks at factors which influence retention of newly licensed nurses within hospitals

A study published in International Journal of Nursing Studies found that first professional degree was a baccalaureate or higher, greater variety and autonomy, and better perceived RN-MD relations are positively associated with nurse retention. The internal turnover rate for new nurses was nearly 30%, significantly higher than previous...

SourceNew York University·JournalInternational Journal of Nursing Studies·DateJul 7, 2016

Mystery solved?

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have identified a new type of filament-forming protein in fruit flies that shares similarities with intermediate filaments in human cells. This discovery may provide insights into how insects survive without traditional IF proteins.

New neurons reveal clues about an individual's autism

A new study co-led by Salk Institute scientists found that some people with autism spectrum disorder have brains that grow faster than usual, often before diagnosis. The researchers used stem cell reprogramming technologies to model the earliest stages of complex disorders and evaluate potential therapeutic drugs.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 7, 2016

The benefits of exercise during pregnancy

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that exercise during pregnancy does not increase the risk of preterm birth and may actually reduce it. Women who exercised were more likely to deliver vaginally and had lower rates of C-sections, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 7, 2016

Revealing the 'taboo' of retirement for Catholic priests; declining population, burnout

A study by Florida Atlantic University researcher Michael N. Kane finds that Catholic priests are struggling with retirement due to a declining population and increasing burnout. The priests' limited financial options and lack of clear retirement policies make it difficult for them to retire without facing significant challenges.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling·DateJul 7, 2016

A surprising planet with 3 suns

Researchers use SPHERE instrument to image first planet in wide orbit inside a triple-star system, suggesting such systems may be more common than thought. The planet, HD 131399Ab, has an unstable orbit and is estimated to be around 16 million years old, making it one of the youngest exoplanets discovered.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateJul 7, 2016

Brain inflammation linked to depression in multiple sclerosis

A new study in Biological Psychiatry reveals that inflammation of the hippocampus contributes to depressive symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients. Hippocampal immune activation was linked to more severe symptoms of depression and altered functional connections with other brain regions.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 7, 2016

Why architects should let the microbes in

Research suggests that certain microbes in the air can be beneficial for human health, reducing allergy rates and improving immune function. By designing buildings with ventilation systems that bring in fresh outdoor air, architects can facilitate exposure to these beneficial microbes.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateJul 7, 2016

The BMJ reports on disclosure UK

The BMJ has released a series of infographics revealing UK doctors' payments from pharmaceutical companies, showing that those with the highest earnings are less likely to disclose payments. The database is seen as a step towards greater transparency and public accountability, but critics argue it is insufficient.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 7, 2016

How fungi stage a deadly under-water attack on Aedes mosquito larvae

Researchers discovered that fungal blastospores can kill mosquito larvae rapidly, with specific characteristics contributing to their virulence. The study found that blastospore invasion can occur even in the presence of drugs inhibiting protease activity, making them a promising alternative to chemical pesticides.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 7, 2016

Researchers assess heatwave risks associated with climate change

A study analyzing climate and mortality data reveals that 64-506 deaths in London and Paris can be attributed to anthropogenic climate change, increasing the risk of heat-related mortality by 20% and 70%, respectively. The analysis will help agencies create more accurate emergency plans for extreme weather events.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 7, 2016

A 'big data' approach to developing cancer drugs

Scientists analyzed genetic mutations in patient tumors and cancer cell lines to predict which drugs will best fight various cancers. The study found that certain genetic mutations can signal whether cancer cells are sensitive or resistant to different compounds, depending on the type of tissue.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJul 7, 2016

New rapid gene test for mitochondrial disease

Researchers at Newcastle University have developed a genetic test to diagnose mitochondrial disorders, identifying six patients from four families affected by the disease. The test, which takes 2-3 days to produce results, has the potential to revolutionize diagnosis and treatment of this debilitating condition.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 7, 2016

University of Illinois researchers demonstrate tunable wetting and adhesion of graphene

University of Illinois researchers have demonstrated doping-induced tunable wetting and adhesion of graphene, revealing its unique properties. The findings show that graphene can exhibit switchable hydrophobic and hydrophilic behavior, enabling the creation of reusable, self-cleaning sensors with potential energy savings.

Sensing trouble: A new way to detect hidden damage in bridges, roads

Researchers from the University of Delaware have developed a new approach to detect hidden damage in structures, using carbon nanotube composites and electrical impedance tomography. The technique can monitor the health of structures and alert owners to potential problems, with major benefits including scalability and relatively low cost.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Nondestructive Evaluation·DateJul 7, 2016

How cooperation emerges in competing populations

Researchers developed a theoretical framework to understand cooperation in competing populations, applying it to consensus votes and epidemic models. The model shows that long-range spatial correlations affect switching between cooperative and non-cooperative behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJul 7, 2016

Areas in need get a food market on wheels

A Michigan State University researcher is helping a farmers market and local food sources go mobile in Flint, providing healthier options to those most in need. The mobile market will offer fruits, veggies, meat, cheese, dairy, grains, and other foods, with community buy-in essential for its success.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Health Geographics·DateJul 7, 2016

Paper or plastic?

A recent study by Avni Shah at the University of Toronto found that paying with cash increases feelings of connection and attachment to purchases, while credit cards may lead to a decrease in emotional attachment. This phenomenon is attributed to the 'pain of payment', which varies depending on the type of payment method used.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 7, 2016

Newly discovered planet has 3 suns

Astronomers have discovered a planet in a unique position between three stars, experiencing constant daylight or triple sunrises and sunsets. The planet, HD 131399Ab, is one of the youngest exoplanets discovered to date and has a wide orbit within a multi-star system.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateJul 7, 2016

Sub-sensory vibratory noise augments postural control in older adults

Researchers found that sub-sensory vibratory noise delivered to the foot sole of older adults significantly augmented postural control complexity, leading to improved mobility and reduced TUG times. This study highlights the potential benefits of vibratory stimulation for enhancing physical function in older adults.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation·DateJul 7, 2016

The first image of a new gaseous component in a planetary nebula

A team of researchers from the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias has discovered a new gaseous component in a planetary nebula, which is helping to understand the chemical evolution of our Galaxy. The component, rich in heavy elements such as oxygen and carbon, was detected using the OSIRIS instrument on the Gran Telescopio CANARIAS.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 7, 2016